The spring of 2021 brought unexpected turmoil during a peaceful lunch with guests at the tourism company owned by a resident of Kotgaon, nestled 1,800 meters high in the upper Tons Valley of Uttarakhand. Abruptly, the individual found themselves writhing in agony on the floor, their spine gripped by excruciating pain. Despite possessing first aid training, the severity of the situation demanded immediate medical attention. Unfortunately, the nearest hospital lay 200 km away in Dehradun, with no ambulance service available in their village. Feeling helpless, they followed the doctor’s advice over the phone, enduring days of discomfort until painkillers finally arrived, allowing them to make the arduous journey to the hospital after a ten-day wait.
Kotgaon, their home, struggles with basic healthcare facilities. Villagers rely on home remedies for common ailments, while serious cases require arduous journeys to the nearest Primary Health Centre, 27 km away. Despite the presence of roads, they are narrow, steep, and treacherous, posing significant challenges for transportation.
The transition to mountain life was gradual for this individual, spurred by a desire to make a difference in remote communities. A former journalist, they ventured into social entrepreneurship, establishing a non-profit to provide essential services in villages like Kalap. Despite the lack of modern amenities, the allure of the mountains and the opportunity to effect positive change motivated their relocation.
Living in the mountains requires adaptability and resourcefulness. Procuring necessities like groceries, water, and electricity involves intricate negotiations and DIY solutions. Despite the hardships, the breathtaking vistas and close-knit community foster a deep sense of belonging.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the village’s resilience and solidarity shone through. From organizing langars for frontline workers to leveraging technology for economic empowerment, the community rallied together in the face of adversity.
Despite occasional nostalgia for urban conveniences, the peace and solitude of mountain life have become their sanctuary. As the mountains envelop them in their embrace, they find solace in the simplicity of wilderness living, free from the constraints of city life.
