In recent days, Nepal has been grappling with a series of devastating landslides and intense rainfall, which have claimed the lives of approximately 30 individuals. This comes on the heels of severe flooding in August that left 1,400 people dead and thousands missing across the country. The national disaster management authority reports that over 1,900 families are impacted, with more than 240 homes destroyed as infrastructure crumbles under nature’s assault.
Impact on Trekkers and the Annapurna Circuit
The Annapurna Circuit, a major trekking destination contributing significantly to Nepal’s economy, has been severely affected. Hundreds of trekkers, trapped by the harsh conditions, were forced to abandon their journeys. Many were airlifted from the Manang and Mustang districts, cutting short an adventure that typically spans up to three weeks.
Local communities are in mourning, with residents like Buti Tamang and Ramesh Ghale finding themselves without shelter and struggling to cope in makeshift tents. The relentless rain has exacerbated their plight, causing further distress.
Challenging Escapes and Ongoing Hazards
Trekkers and their guides have recounted perilous returns from the mountains. Jake Stacy, from Suffolk, and his guide faced treacherous conditions in Yak Kharka, ultimately deciding against continuing to the Thorang La pass due to heavy snowfall. “We had to forge our own paths along the slopes,” Stacy explained after reaching Pokhara.
Similarly, Australian Andrew Graham and his guide Prem KC encountered over 15 landslides on their way back from Manang village. These obstacles forced them to spend an uneasy night in the jungle after reaching Chame, a village evacuated due to landslide threats.
Efforts to Mitigate the Crisis
A landslide has partially obstructed a river in Chame, creating a temporary lake that threatens nearby homes and infrastructure. Despite efforts to release the water using excavators, success has been limited. Meanwhile, trekking guide Tse Ring Doma described the psychological toll of navigating 28 landslides, with memories of last month’s disaster fresh in mind.
Authorities are working to clear landslides swiftly, and although road damage in Manang is extensive, no fatalities have been reported in the trekking regions. However, an avalanche near Himlung Peak claimed four lives, with 12 people still missing.
Future of Trekking and Infrastructure
Despite the challenges, around 700 trekkers are waiting in Pokhara to start the Annapurna Circuit. However, the Annapurna Conservation Area Project is cautious about reopening the route due to safety concerns, despite pressure from the trekking industry.
Many traditional trekking paths, abandoned after the construction of new roads, are now seeing renewed use as the main roads remain impassable. Indian pilgrims visiting the Muktinath temple have been advised to fly instead of drive between Jomson and Pokhara due to road closures.
