Himalayan districts face challenges as election preparations near completion

KATHMANDU: Election preparations in several Himalayan districts have become challenging due to snowfall, harsh weather, and limited transportation access, even as authorities move ahead with final arrangements for Thursday’s House of Representatives election.

The Election Commission Nepal said election materials and personnel have already been dispatched to most high-altitude polling centers despite difficult terrain and adverse weather conditions. In some remote settlements, materials were transported by helicopter as road access remains limited.

Officials say voter turnout in many Himalayan areas is likely to remain low, as a large number of residents who moved to lower regions during winter have yet to return to their villages. Seasonal migration is common in these regions, where harsh winter conditions make daily life difficult.

Local residents say the ongoing cold wave has also raised health concerns for election staff, security personnel, and health workers deployed from outside the districts. They warn that respiratory problems and altitude-related illnesses could affect those working in high-altitude settlements.

Authorities have arranged oxygen cylinders, essential medicines, and standby medical teams in several districts to address potential health emergencies.

In Mustang District, all 40 polling centers are accessible by road and election materials have already been delivered. However, officials say turnout may remain low as many voters spend winter in cities such as Pokhara and Kathmandu.

Similarly, in Taplejung District, election materials were sent to four high Himalayan polling centers—Yangma, Olangchung Gola, Ghunsa, and Gyabla—well in advance due to the absence of road access. Security personnel and election staff had to travel on foot to reach these remote areas.

Authorities in Darchula District have also made special arrangements for voters in remote settlements, including shifting polling arrangements closer to the district headquarters for some communities.

Despite the logistical and weather-related challenges, election officials say preparations have been completed and voting will proceed in all districts as scheduled.