BAJURA: Continuous rainfall has been recorded in Bajura since this morning, accompanied by snowfall in the district’s high-altitude areas.
The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology has warned of heavy rain and snowfall in the hilly and mountainous districts of Sudurpaschim Province.
Acting Chief District Officer Laxman Pudasaini reported that mountainous areas and settlements in Badimalika, Budhiganga Triveni, Budhinanda Municipality, Himali, Khaptad Chhededah, Gaumul, Swamikartik, and Jagannath Rural Municipality have been affected by snowfall.
Local residents of Himali Bichhya, Rugin, Bandhu, Gaumulko Amlis, Dahakot, Budhinandako Kuru, Pandusain, Khaptad Chhededah, and surrounding areas have been most impacted. The mountains have turned white, and cold weather has particularly affected the elderly, children, and chronically ill people.
High mountains including Badimalika, Porkhelek, Kalajagra, Budhinanda, and Ranisain remain snow-covered. Pudasaini urged the public to remain on high alert due to the risk of floods, landslides, and windstorms resulting from heavy rain.
Meanwhile, the Agricultural Knowledge Center highlighted the benefits of the rainfall for local farming. Chief Jasiram Sahani said that the rain supports wheat sowing, fruit cultivation—including yams and apples—and provides natural irrigation for Chaite paddy.
“The rain has arrived at a critical time for wheat sprouting and fruit blooming, providing relief and essential moisture for Chaite rice fields,” he noted.
Health officials advised people to stay indoors and wear warm clothing to protect against the cold, particularly children, the elderly, and the chronically ill.
Increased risk of wildlife poaching
Meanwhile, the Forest Office Division has warned that snowfall forces wild animals, including ghoral and ratuwa, to descend into valleys, increasing the risk of poaching.
Subash Chandra Ayadi, information officer at the office, said security personnel have been mobilized and legal action under the Forest Act will be taken against anyone involved in poaching. The public has been urged to refrain from harming wildlife during this period.
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