The Sikkim government has mandated that all vehicles registered in the state carry oxygen supply kits or canisters starting on July 1 in response to numerous occurrences involving persons having breathing difficulties at high altitudes.
The Sikkim Transport Secretary Raj Yadav announced on Wednesday that all vehicles, both personal and commercial, must have portable oxygen kits or canisters.

Many of Sikkim’s well-known tourist attractions are found in the state’s north at elevations of over 10,000 feet. These include Yumthang, Gurudongmar Lake, Lachung, and Lachen.

In the east of the Himalayan state, near Tsomgo (Chhangu) Lake, Nathu-la, and Baba Mandir, reports of tourists having breathing difficulties, particularly elderly and young people, have been made.

The state health department will certify the kits and canisters, and police officers and the motor vehicles division of the transport department will examine the vehicles frequently to make sure they are following the rules.