Muscat – Oman is bestowed with breathtaking outdoors – diverse mountain ranges, serpentine wadis and extensive coastline – which provide the right vibe for trekking and hiking round the year. However, despite the efforts of the authorities for the safety of hikers, unfortunate accidents and often deaths continue to occur. What measures should be taken to enhance safety of hikers and reduce outdoor accidents in recreational areas? Here is what Muscat Daily readers said:

Khalid al Amri, Filmmaker

Authorities should conduct regular educational programmes and awareness campaigns to inform hikers about the potential risks and hazards associated with trekking and hiking in mountainous terrain. This should include information on weather conditions, trail difficulty levels, necessary equipment and emergency procedures. Proper clear signages and trail markings should be installed along hiking routes to guide hikers and help them stay on designated paths.

Amit Kumar, Private company employee

Establishing an effective emergency response system is crucial for providing timely assistance to hikers in distress. This includes setting up of emergency helplines, equipping hiking trails with emergency call boxes and deployment of rescue teams trained in swift response techniques. Regular maintenance of hiking trails, including the clearance of debris, repair of damaged pathways, and installation of safety barriers, is essential to minimise potential risks to hikers.

Salim Ahmed, Private company employee

Introduction of hiking permits and regulations can help control the number of hikers accessing certain trails and ensure that individuals are adequately prepared for the challenges they may encounter. Enforcing rules such as group size limits, restricted access during hazardous weather conditions and mandatory equipment requirements are a must.

Mohammad al Hinai, Government employee

By implementing some steady and fast measures effectively, authorities can create a safer environment for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. Conducting periodic monitoring of environmental conditions can help identify potential hazards. There should also be regular inspection of trail conditions, weather forecasts, and natural phenomena such as rains and landslides.

Sushanth Prabhu, Physiotherapist

Proper planning is essential before engaging in any outdoor activity. Research the area, understand the terrain and weather conditions. Make sure you have the right gear for the activity and that it is in good condition. Whenever possible, engage in outdoor activities with a partner or a group. This can provide support in case of emergencies and help reduce the risk of injury.

Dr Hameed Parappil, ENT

Despite earnest efforts by authorities, hiking accidents and fatalities persist. To bolster safety, rigorous trail maintenance, clearer signages, and regular safety briefings are crucial. Moreover, implementing mandatory hiking permits, advanced GPS tracking systems, and increased ranger patrols can mitigate risks. Vigilance and proactive measures are imperative to safeguard outdoor enthusiasts.