A prompt and coordinated response by personnel of the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) at the remote Border Out Post (BOP) Yambung in North Sikkim helped save the life of a foreign tourist who suffered from high-altitude sickness on Monday afternoon. The incident occurred at the Yambung post, situated at an altitude of 12,246 feet, when a group of eight trekkers — including three foreign tourists, a local guide, two cooks, two helpers, and a yak rider — reached the area.
Shortly after their arrival, Ms. Nicole Horner, one of the female tourists, began experiencing breathing difficulties, showing symptoms of acute mountain sickness. On receiving the alert, ASI (GD) Bukul Sonowal, In-Charge of BOP Yambung, immediately informed his Company and Battalion Headquarters. Acting on instructions, SSB personnel swiftly attended to the tourist, keeping oxygen and essential medical supplies ready.
Ms. Horner’s condition improved quickly, and medical intervention was not required. She has since recovered fully and is currently staying at the Yambung post along with one guide and one porter as a precaution, while the rest of the group has resumed their trek.