KATHMANDU: The Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal (TAAN) has urged trekking guides, trekkers, and tourists to take precautions against the potential impacts of Cyclone Arnab, which has developed in the Bay of Bengal.
Citing notices issued by the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology and the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA), TAAN has called on all concerned to remain alert and prepare for possible weather-related risks associated with the cyclone.
According to forecasts, the cyclone is expected to enter Indian territory on October 28, with its effects likely to be felt in Nepal from the night of October 29.
The cyclone is expected to bring moderate to heavy rainfall, lightning, and strong winds to various parts of the Tarai, Chure, and mid-hill regions on October 30 and 31. Meanwhile, the high-hill and mountainous regions are at significant risk of heavy snowfall, blizzards, and avalanches.
In view of these forecasts, TAAN has urged its members to promptly inform trekking guides, support staff, and tourists about the potential impacts of the cyclone and ensure necessary preparedness.
The association has also advised people to contact 1115 for weather-related information and dial 01234, 100, or 1114 for assistance during emergencies.
People currently staying at base camps, including Ghorad, Larke, Kadla, Saribung, Chhola, and Suryakunda, as well as other high-altitude tourist destinations such as Tilicho Lake, have been advised to move to safer locations. TAAN has also urged trekkers to suspend travel to these destinations from October 31.
Those travelling to base camps for mountaineering expeditions have been advised to postpone their journeys until the coming Friday and Saturday and arrange safe accommodation until the risk subsides.
Similarly, trekkers travelling through the mid-hills and high-hill regions or along river corridors have been urged to avoid staying in or passing through landslide-prone areas and locations near streams and rivers that are vulnerable to flooding.
In light of the adverse weather forecast and its potential impacts, TAAN President Sagar Pandey has urged trekkers and travellers to exercise extreme caution on roads, trekking trails, and temporary bridges in several areas.
These include Tatopani, Khorlabesi, Jagat, Sola, and Namrung in the Manaslu region; Khotro, Koto, and Chame in the Manang region; and Pokhare in the Myagdi and Mustang regions.
These routes have recently reopened to trekkers following temporary repairs after being damaged by floods and landslides. TAAN has therefore stressed the need for extra caution while travelling through these areas during the period of adverse weather.
Comment