If you are troubled by the heat of Delhi-NCR and want to go to the mountains during weekends or holidays, then this journey can be very exciting but also dangerous. Winding roads, steep rocks, strong winds, sudden weather changes and narrow lanes on Himalayan routes often become the cause of accidents.
Every year hundreds of tourists lose their lives on these roads due to their carelessness. But with the right information, caution and discipline, you can make this journey memorable and safe. Hill driving is not a race, but a game of patience and understanding. If you want to save your life and that of your family, then definitely follow these 5 life-saving tips.
1. Complete checking and preparation of the vehicle
Before going to the mountains, get your car thoroughly checked at the service center. Make sure to check brakes, clutch, engine cooling system, tires (tubeless and with good grip), headlights and wipers. Carry extra brake fluid, engine oil, water, tool kit, spare tire and fully charged power bank. It is common for the engine to overheat in the mountains, so always keep the water and coolant levels in the radiator correct. If you leave in the morning, fill the tank full as petrol pumps are less in number above. If the vehicle is old or weak then avoid hilly travel.
2. Drive slowly and use lower gears
Do not maintain speed more than 30-40 km/h on hilly roads. Use your horn at every turn as anything may come your way. Always drive in lower gear when going downhill, do not press the brakes repeatedly, otherwise the brakes may fail. Stay in low gear even on uphill so that engine braking works. Never leave the car in neutral. Stay in the middle of the road at turns and minimize overtaking. Avoid driving at night as visibility becomes very low.
3. Keep in mind the weather and road conditions
In the mountains the weather changes in 10-15 minutes. Check news of rain, fog, snowfall or landslides in advance (from IMD app or local police). If it is raining, be even more careful as the road becomes slippery. Always go slowly at blind turns and stay on the left side. If there is a heavy vehicle coming from the front, then give way to it. Never take risks in a flooded drain or landslide area.
4. Avoid fatigue and take breaks
In long drives, take a break of 10-15 minutes every 1-1.5 hours. Have tea and breakfast, close your eyes and rest. Constant turns on hilly roads and fear of ditches increase fatigue. If there is only one driver, stay overnight and leave the next day. Keep the music light, don't talk on the phone. Children and the elderly must wear seat belts and do not allow them to look out of the window.
5. Emergency preparedness and correct behavior
Carry a first aid kit, torch, warm clothes, some dry food, water and rope. If the car breaks down, park it on the side of the road, keep the hazard lights on and stand on the side. Follow the advice of local people and traffic police. Overconfidence is the biggest enemy. If you have less experience in hill driving then take a professional driver or taxi. By following these tips you can return from your trip safely.
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