The thrills an adventure sport induces, the resulting gush of adrenalin, are intoxicating for people who think moving a file is stimulating. That is probably why there is such a rush for adventure sports bookings. But hand in hand with adventure goes risk, danger and, sometimes, death. As in the recent Four Square Rafting Challenge expedition on the Ganges in which four people lost their lives.
Experts are quick to admit that river rafting does involve certain risks.
But, they say, the thing to do is to keep firmly in mind the rules of the game. Says Dr NPS Chawla, medical director, East West Rescue, a premier emergency medical assistance and air ambulance company, which was responsible for the safety arrangements at the Four Square event, Rafting, like any other adventure sport, carries an element of risk, but if the instructions are followed closely, then the chances of mishaps are close to zero. Dr Chawla offers some advice for those seeking adventure in sport. Prior to enrolling yourself for any such activity, trekking in particular, chart out a fitness programme for yourself. Get your doctor to give you a clean bill of health.