Solo Bike Ride To Leh Turned Deadly For Noida Youth As He Dies Of Oxygen Deficiency

A solo bike trip to Leh in Ladakh ended tragically for a 27-year-old youth from Noida, who allegedly died after his health deteriorated due to oxygen deficiency in the high-altitude areas of the region.

The deceased, Chinmay Sharma, worked at a digital marketing agency in Noida and was the only son of his parents who live in Muzaffarnagar.

According to a Times of India report, Sharma embarked on the journey on August 22. When he reached Leh, which is situated at an altitude of roughly 3500 meters (11482 feet), he dialled his father to inform him about headache. Later that day (on August 26), Sharma told his father that he was finding it difficult to breathe.

On getting to know about his son’s condition, the father, Parag Sharma, called the hotel staff in Leh and asked them take his son to a hospital. While his parents were on their way to Leh, the condition of 27-year-old old deteriorated further and died during treatment.

Altitude Sickness In Leh-Ladakh

Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), also known as altitude sickness, is a common concern in Leh-Ladakh due to its high-altitude environment. AMS occurs when the body struggles to adjust to reduced oxygen levels at high elevations.

Symptoms can include headache, nausea, dizziness, and shortness of breath. To minimise the risk, it’s essential to acclimatize properly, stay hydrated, avoid overexertion, and consult a doctor about preventive measures.

Precautions To Take While Travelling To Leh-Ladakh

• All tourists and visitors arriving in Leh must spend a minimum of 48 hours acclimatizing before embarking on journeys to high-altitude areas of Leh like Khardung La, Pangong Lake, etc.
• During the first two days after arriving in Leh, tourist should avoid any active physical exertion. Tourists must stay hydrated and refrain from consuming alcohol, smoking, or using sedatives.
• Stop your journey forward and immediately speak to a doctor if you are not feeling well

In case of any emergency, kindly visit https://leh.nic.in/department/medical/ or

contact the following telephone numbers:

1. Chief Medical Officer’s Office, Leh: 01982-252012
2. Medical Superintendent, SNM Hospital Leh: 01982-252014