Heavy snowfall affects life in Khumbu region

Solukhumbu: Heavy snowfall has occurred in the Sagarmatha region since early this morning. Snowfall is taking place in areas above Dingboche in Khumbu Pasanglhamu Rural Municipality, while rainfall is reported in Namche Bazaar and the surrounding lower areas.

“There is heavy snow above Dingboche, it is raining in the lower areas, and all tourists are inside hotels. It is not possible to go outside,” said Lamakaji Sherpa, Chairman of the Sagarmatha Pollution Control Committee. Currently, it is estimated that there are over 3,000 foreign tourists in this area.

On Monday alone, about 800 foreign tourists had arrived in Lukla from Kathmandu. The District Administration Office has advised tourists not to travel as the trekking routes are invisible due to the snow cover and the possible risk of tourists getting lost.

Chief District Officer Lilakumari KC Pandey said, “Due to adverse weather, all tourists have been requested to stay safe and remain in hotels or homes.” The district administration has kept the rescue team on standby.

Deputy Superintendent of Police Manojit Kunwar at the District Police Office said that a temporary police post has been set up in Dingboche and information about tourists in the area is being obtained by establishing continuous contact with the police there.

It is estimated that there are about 2,000 foreign tourists above Dingboche. Incessant snowfall and rain have increased the cold. Pemba Sherpa, a local from Khumjung, said, “It has been very cold since this morning, snow has covered the village, everyone is staying indoors.” Continuous snowfall has affected daily life in the Khumbu region.

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