A training to use the Global Positioning System or GPS coordinates saw an overwhelming turnout in Pema Gatshel recently. The one day session was enough to equip nearly 100 participants with the basic skills. Using a smartphone, GPS coordinates help track and trace during search and rescue operations.
Participants from various sectors found the training relevant and important.
“If the team provides us the GPS coordinates, then we can find the location at the earliest and send the team from here. It will also be easier to reach the destination without and problem. In addition, using this system can also help control the disasters on time efficiently,” said Lt. Col Ugyen Kelzang, officer commanding of RBP.
“At present, we have to ask information from the Gups and Tshogpas. It really wastes our time having to locate the destination. Now with this system, we can locate the place in a much faster and easier way and will enhance any rescue operations,” said Neten Zangmo, DeSuup.
“In schools, the GPS system will only enhance our teaching and learning. During our time, we only learnt about the latitude and longitude in theory. But this GPS coordinates will practically show students how it’s used as even small children own a phone these days. It will especially be handy for geography teachers,” said Sonam Wangchuk, Dy, Chief DEO.
A group called Druk GPS started the initiative to educate community to use the GPS tracker. The team started training people beginning last month.
“Our program is being conducted in 20 dzongkhags. We can now send our coordinates to air navigation. We want to equip people to be able to send the coordinates and even arrange for helicopters during emergencies,” said Ugyen Dorji, Founder of Druk GPS.
The team completed training five eastern districts so far.
Thinley Dorji, Pema Gatshel
Edited by Sonam Pem
