Trekking groups the first line of defence during disasters in the ghats

The role of local trekking and rescue groups in disaster response came to the fore during the collapse of a bridge over the Indrayani river in Kundamala near Pune last week.

- Shrinivas Deshpande

PUNE:

Volunteer teams such as the Vanya Jeev Rakshak Sanstha Maval, the Shivdurg Mitra Lonavla, and Maval Adventures were among the first responders, saving lives and supporting official agencies on ground.

These groups, comprised of trained volunteers, have emerged as vital pillars of emergency response in Maval and surrounding areas. Their effectiveness lies in their deep knowledge of the terrain, rapid mobilisation, and ability to operate in difficult conditions, be it during landslides, flash floods, or in low-visibility, fog-prone zones.

Functioning under the Central government's Aapda Mitra initiative, many of these groups are equipped with basic rescue gear and have received formal disaster response training. In remote areas, where official assistance is delayed, their efforts have often meant the difference between life and death.

Founded by Nilesh Garade in 2010, Vanya Jeev Rakshak Sanstha in Maval was formally registered in 2017. It has over 300 active members now. The group initially focused on animal rescue and has expanded into water rescue in the past eight to nine years after undergoing training with the Shivdurg Mitra Lonavla.

"To date, we have recovered more than 400 bodies during various rescue operations—all conducted voluntarily and free of cost," said Garade.

Garade explained their mobilisation process: "When we receive a rescue call, we share the location and details on our WhatsApp group. Those nearby respond immediately, while others join later depending on availability. No one is forced to leave their work for a rescue."

Team members come from diverse backgrounds including mechanics, private employees, shopkeepers, tea stall vendors, and contractors. The group has basic equipment such as three boats, two engines, ambulances, safety ropes, harnesses, and climbing gear.