Heavy Snowfall in Himalayan Districts Disrupts Daily Life

Kathmandu — Since Tuesday night, heavy snowfall has battered Himalayan districts including Mustang, Humla, and Bajura, making day-to-day life difficult for residents.

Snow has blanketed the ridges of Mustang, turning the landscape white, and rain has fallen in many lower areas. The Kaghbeni–Korala road section has been blocked by snow, and in some places more than two feet has accumulated.

In Karnali Province, thick snow has fallen since Tuesday night in Humla, Mugu, Dolpa, Jumla and Kalikot. In Humla’s headquarters of Simkot and surrounding highlands, up to one foot of snow has accumulated, forcing a complete shutdown of air services.

Roads connecting Limi, Nyalup, Yari and Hilsa have also been closed, significantly disrupting travel.

Heavy snowfall has also hit the Budhimalika, Budhiganga, Triveni and Budhinanda municipalities of Bajura as well as various rural areas, badly affecting villagers in places such as Vichhya, Rugin, Bandhu and Gaaumul’s Dahkot.

The cold snap has made everyday life harder for local residents.

However, farmers have welcomed the snow and rain as a relief. In Mustang, there is renewed hope for crops such as apples, barley, buckwheat and potatoes, and in Bajura agricultural experts say the snowfall will benefit wheat crops.

Despite the hardship brought by the cold and snow, many farmers are delighted at prospects for a good winter harvest.