The Armed Police Force (APF) has successfully rescued 162 tourists from the Annapurna Base Camp in Myagdi district over a span of three days. The operation, which included both domestic and international travelers, was carried out under challenging weather conditions.
Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Shailendra Thapa, co-spokesperson for the APF, confirmed that the rescue team was deployed in the area from Kartik 11. By Thursday morning, a total of 162 individuals, including 17 foreign tourists, had been safely evacuated from the base camp.
No Tourists Remain at Annapurna Base Camp
DSP Thapa emphasized that currently, there are no tourists remaining at the Annapurna Base Camp. “All individuals have been brought to safe locations. However, there are reports of snow and landslides at the base camp,” he added.
The thick snowfall and poor visibility had trapped several tourists along the trekking routes, making it difficult for them to find their way. The APF rescue team, with the help of ropes and guided pathways, managed to navigate these tourists to safety.
Rescue Operation Details
Some tourists who had just begun their trek to the base camp were also turned back to safer routes by the rescue team. Those who were evacuated were safely transported to areas such as Gufapant and Sadikhark, which were unaffected by snowfall.
The operation involved continuous monitoring of weather conditions and terrain risks. DSP Thapa noted that while some of the rescued tourists experienced minor health issues, including respiratory problems, there were no major medical emergencies reported.
APF’s Swift Response Amid Harsh Weather
The rescue operation highlights the critical role of the Armed Police Force in ensuring the safety of trekkers during adverse weather conditions in the Himalayas. Thick snowfall and the threat of avalanches make trekking in high-altitude regions like Annapurna extremely risky during this season.
Authorities have urged all tourists and trekkers to follow official weather advisories and avoid venturing into high-risk areas without proper guidance. The APF and local authorities continue to monitor the region for potential hazards and remain ready for further rescue operations if needed.
Ensuring Tourist Safety
The successful rescue of 162 tourists underscores the importance of preparedness, coordination, and rapid response in Nepal’s mountainous regions. The APF, along with local officials, ensured that all rescued individuals were transported to safer zones and received necessary care.
Trekkers and mountaineers are advised to register with local authorities before embarking on high-altitude expeditions, carry essential safety gear, and maintain communication with rescue teams in case of emergencies. The operation concludes that, despite challenging weather conditions, effective coordination and timely intervention can prevent tragedies in Nepal’s treacherous mountainous regions.
