Nepal Suspends Trekking Permits Amid Heavy Snowfall and Avalanche Threat
Nepals immigration department halts trekking permits in high-altitude areas from October 29 to 31 due to severe weather risks.
Kathmandu, October 27 (Daily Kiran) : Nepal’s immigration department has announced a suspension of trekking permits for restricted areas in high-altitude and Himalayan regions from October 29 to 31. This decision comes in response to warnings of heavy snowfall, blizzards, and avalanche risks.
The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority advised tourists to avoid these regions during this period. A special bulletin from the Nepal Meteorological Department indicated that Cyclone Arnab, forming over the Bay of Bengal, is intensifying, which could lead to heavy rain, strong winds, snowfall, and increased avalanche threats across various parts of Nepal.
In a statement, the immigration department urged trekkers who have already obtained permits to postpone their trips to minimize risks. Those already on their journeys were advised to stay in safe locations. The department also called on trekking agencies, guides, and other stakeholders to adhere to these directives.
Additionally, the National Disaster Management Authority warned that adverse weather conditions could disrupt road and air transport services, affecting daily life. People have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel and to stay clear of areas prone to flooding, particularly near rivers.
Recent weeks have seen a series of such warnings in Nepal. On August 26, a devastating flood occurred near the Nepal-China border due to an avalanche that blocked a river, leading to a natural dam break. This disaster resulted in approximately 1,500 deaths, with over 5,000 individuals still reported missing. The World Bank estimates the physical damage from this calamity at around $1.66 billion.
