08/08/2010
Leh: Tourists lend a hand
Leh: Even as the Armed Forces are working overtime in the flash flood affected areas, an army of volunteers has joined them in their rescue efforts, representing the global nature of Ladakh that is one of the most popular tourist destination for foreigners.
From doctors and paramedics from the UK to teachers from Germany, Israeli students and holidaying Indian doctors, hundreds of tourists have joined hands since Friday to assist authorities in rescue efforts.
On Friday morning, as the Army hospital started overflowing with victims, a British couple on holiday in India hitched a ride to the medical facility to offer their services. "We were driving to an affected area when the convoy was flagged down by two foreigners. They identified themselves as doctors and requested us to drop them to a medical facility," an Army officer said.
Another group of doctors from Mumbai, who were on the final leg of their Ladakh tour, also rushed to the hospital, offering assistance.
In Choglamsar, one of most badly-affected areas, a group of Israeli volunteers have been working since Saturday morning to excavate several houses buried under several feet of mud and slush. "It's the least we can do to help the people of Ladakh," said Til Enbargar, an Israeli student.
Similar scenes were visible in Leh town where a group of German teachers were working to remove stones and mud from a locality where dozens are feared to be buried. Several NGOs have also roped in tourists and foreigners who are keen to lend a hand in the rescue effort.
Source: Indian Express
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