A mock disaster drill conducted at the picturesque Begnas Lake in Pokhara Metropolitan City-31 simulated a terrifying boat accident to test and improve water-based rescue preparedness. The exercise featured a sudden boat capsizing scene during a storm, followed by a dramatic rescue operation of passengers who had plunged into the lake.
According to the simulation, the accident unfolded when a tourist boat capsized amid strong winds and lightning. Passengers, initially enjoying a peaceful lake tour, found themselves fighting for survival, some crying for help, others attempting to swim ashore. Within moments of the emergency alert, an Armed Police Force (APF) rescue team arrived on the scene and immediately began operations. Several passengers were rescued and provided first aid before being taken to hospitals for further medical check-ups.
One missing person was located and retrieved from the water by a team of professional divers. The rescue drill demonstrated the fearless efforts of APF personnel who risked their lives to save others. This scenario was part of a disaster response drill organized by the Kalika Battalion under the coordination of the Muktinath Division of the Armed Police Force.
Various members of the Gandaki Province Disaster Management Team, including divers and rope rescue professional,s participated in the drill. The exercise also included rope-assisted rescues for people trapped along the lake cliffs, simulating real-life complications during natural calamities.
On the occasion, a range of rescue tools and equipment were displayed to raise awareness and demonstrate capabilities. Commander of the Kalika Battalion, Surya Prasad Timilsina, stated that the drill was aimed at enhancing the APF’s proficiency and skills in disaster response scenarios.
Deputy Inspector General of the Muktinath Division, Kul Bahadur Nembang, shared that 29 separate or joint mock drills have been conducted across all 11 districts of Gandaki Province since mid-July. He emphasized that such drills are instrumental in mitigating losses during disasters by preparing rescue teams in advance.
Gandaki Province Chief Minister Surendra Raj Pandey, who observed the rescue drill, highlighted the importance of unified action in disaster mitigation, search, rescue, treatment, and relief efforts. “Although Gandaki is naturally beautiful, it is equally prone to disaster risks,” he said. The Chief Minister also mentioned the provincial government’s support in constructing a ‘Rescue Tower’ at Begnas Lake to aid in future water-based emergency responses.
Further, the province has been actively coordinating with security agencies to conduct disaster simulations, training programs, and equipment handovers. A diver training initiative has been launched in partnership with the APF to strengthen local rescue capacities. Chief Minister Pandey stressed the importance of proactive preparation, robust coordination, and capacity-building at the local level to reduce the severity of disaster impacts.
The Gandaki Province Disaster Management Team, established in 2012 (BS 2069), currently consists of 45 trained personnel led by an Assistant Inspector. The team includes 13 certified divers, 4 firefighters, and 7 rope rescue specialists. So far, they have successfully rescued 1,230 individuals alive and recovered 283 deceased from various incidents.
