Gangtok, March 16 (IPR): A Drivers’ Sensitisation Programme on First Aid, High Altitude Emergencies and Tourist Etiquette for tourist taxi drivers of Gangtok District was held today at a local hotel. The programme was organised by the District Administrative Centre Gangtok and Tourism and Civil Aviation Department, Government of Sikkim, under the IEIAP Convergence of the Sikkim INSPIRES Programme.
Delivering the welcome address, Ms Yamini Pradhan, Deputy Director-II, Tourism and Civil Aviation Department, highlighted the important role played by tourist taxi drivers as the first point of contact for visitors arriving in the State.
Mr Bhavesh Khyalia, Assistant Collector, Gangtok, while addressing the participants, briefed them on the objectives and functioning of the Sikkim INSPIRES initiative. He emphasised the need for a more sustainable and inclusive economic model for the State, noting that development must move towards a “bottom-to-top” approach that benefits grassroots stakeholders.
He stated that tourism is one of the largest contributors to Sikkim’s economy and that tourist taxi drivers play a crucial role in shaping visitors’ experiences. Since many tourists begin their journey to Sikkim from Bagdogra with local drivers, he noted that drivers effectively serve as ambassadors of the State’s hospitality and culture. He expressed hope that such training programmes would enhance professionalism, service standards and awareness among drivers, thereby strengthening the tourism sector while supporting the livelihoods of those engaged in it.
Mr Kazi Sherpa, Joint Director, Tourism and Civil Aviation Department, interacted with the drivers and sought feedback on the challenges they face while operating on high-altitude routes. Emphasising safe tourism practices, he described drivers as “first responders” for tourists and urged them to be aware of symptoms of high-altitude illness. He also advised drivers to understand the travel history of tourists and avoid switching on vehicle heaters immediately, suggesting instead that more stops be made during the journey to allow visitors to acclimatize gradually.
During the programme, Dr Pankaj Pradhan, MD, Senior Consultant from the Department of Anaesthesia, conducted a session on first aid and altitude sickness awareness, covering CPR basics, oxygen use and identification of symptoms related to Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).
The programme also featured an interactive skit by local artists led by Angel Motion Pictures, focusing on tourist etiquette, communication skills and responsible tourism practices.
Mr Tenzing Bhutia, Range Officer from the Forest Department, conducted a session on environmental responsibility and waste management in tourist areas.
An interactive question-and-answer session with Ms Priya Shrestha, Technical Support Agent, allowed participants to raise practical concerns related to their day-to-day operations.
The programme also witnessed the launch of the Responsible Travel Guidelines for Visitors of Sikkim.
Drivers were further distributed oxygen cylinders, garbage bags and first aid kits to support emergency response and promote cleanliness in tourist destinations.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr Sheetal Pradhan, Coordinator, Tourism and Civil Aviation Department, while Ms Deepa Gurung served as the Master of Ceremonies.
The event was attended by members of the JN Road Taxi Drivers Association, along with officers and staff of the department.