Flags off specially-trained Mountain Rescue Teams for both pilgrim routes DGP’s commendation medal approved for Gulmarg rescue ops participants Srinagar, Jun 18: With the shadow of increasing cloudbursts looming large over the Himalayas due to global warming, Director General of Police (DGP) Nalin Prabhat Thursday flagged off specially trained Mountain Rescue Teams (MRTs) for the upcoming Amarnath Yatra, describing them as the first line of response during disasters and emergencies in high-altitude terrain. The DGP said it was for the first time that a highly trained joint rescue team would be deployed to assist and guard the Amarnath pilgrims at both base camps. Addressing the teams flagged off for both Yatra routes, he said the MRTs will deal with rescue operations, high-altitude sickness and provide necessary medical assistance to pilgrims during the 57-day-long Yatra beginning July 3. Prabhat said the teams will also respond to emergency rescue situations in case of natural calamities during the pilgrimage.