KATHMANDU, Oct 28: The Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal (TAAN) and authorities in Mustang have urged trekkers and tourists to exercise caution and suspend travel to high-altitude areas from October 29 to 31 amid the threat of Cyclone Arnab.
Citing notices issued by the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology and the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority, TAAN warned of moderate to heavy rainfall, lightning and strong winds in the Tarai, Chure and mid-hill regions on October 30 and 31. Heavy snowfall, blizzards and avalanches are also possible in high-hill and mountainous regions.
Trekking trails exploration, maintenance in TAAN priority
TAAN has urged trekking agencies to inform guides, support staff and tourists about the risks. Those already at base camps and high-altitude destinations, including Tilicho Lake, have been advised to move to safer locations, while trekkers planning expeditions have been urged to postpone their journeys. The association has also warned trekkers to avoid landslide-prone areas and river corridors.
Meanwhile, the Mustang District Administration Office and Lomanthang Rural Municipality have issued separate notices advising tourists and trekkers to avoid high-altitude areas during the three-day period.
Mustang Chief District Officer Parshuram Pokharel warned that falling temperatures, landslides and adverse weather could disrupt road and air transport. Lomanthang Rural Municipality Chairperson Tasi Nharbu Gurung has urged transport operators, drivers, traders and tourists to avoid travelling towards the Korala border point due to the risks of slippery roads, accidents and snowfall-related blockages.
TAAN President Sagar Pandey has also urged caution on roads, trekking trails and temporary bridges in the Manaslu, Manang, Myagdi and Mustang regions, where some routes were recently reopened after temporary repairs following flood and landslide damage.
