Kathmandu [Nepal], October 29 (ANI): Nepali security forces have rescued more than 1,500 stranded tourists from high-altitude areas of Manang following heavy snowfall and adverse weather conditions.
According to the Nepal Army, hundreds of trekkers heading toward Tilicho Lake (4,919 meters) were forced to turn back from the base camp after the snowfall blocked trails and made conditions unsafe.
“Due to heavy snowfall in various areas of Manang district, a rescue team deployed from the New Bhairavidal Gulm has assisted approximately 1,500 people, including more than 200 foreign tourists who were stranded, in reaching a safe place with the cooperation of the local administration, elected representatives, the Armed Police Force, Nepal Police, and locals,” the Nepal Army said in a post on X.
Local officials confirmed that about 800 to 900 tourists have returned from Tilicho Base Camp over the past two days.
“After the heavy snowfall in the high areas, nearly one thousand tourists have descended to Khangsar — the last settlement before Tilicho Lake. Many others are descending following the adverse weather,” said Chyolpa Gurung, ward chair of Ngisyang Rural Municipality-9, in a phone conversation with ANI.
The District Administration Office of Manang stated that efforts are underway to clear snow along trekking routes and urged trekkers to cancel their visits.
“Attempts are being made to clear the trails, but the snowfall is intense. We have requested trekkers and tourists who are still in lower areas to cancel their plans until the end of this week,” confirmed Naba Raj Poudyal, Chief District Officer of Manang.
A district-level security task force has been deployed to assist with road clearance and rescue operations. Security personnel equipped with shovels and excavators are working to reopen blocked routes, and motorcycle movement has resumed in some sections. (ANI)
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