A total of 16 people, including 10 Indian nationals, lost their lives due to high-altitude sickness in Mustang district during the fiscal year 2082/83 BS, according to data from Province Hospital Jomsom. Hospital records show that the fatalities included 10 Indian citizens, five Nepalis, and one Mexican national, highlighting the continued risks faced by travelers and pilgrims visiting Nepal’s high Himalayan region.
Most Victims Were Aged Between 50 and 84 Years
Medical Superintendent of Province Hospital Jomsom, Dr. Samikshya Kandel, said the victims were between 50 and 84 years of age, an age group generally considered more vulnerable to altitude-related health complications. According to the hospital, one person died from high-altitude sickness in Bhadra, one in Ashwin, three in Kartik, two in Mangsir, two in Chaitra, and three in Jestha. The remaining deaths occurred during other months of the fiscal year.
Fatalities Increase Compared to Previous Fiscal Year
The number of deaths recorded in fiscal year 2082/83 represents a significant increase compared to 2081/82, when nine people died from high-altitude sickness in Mustang.
During the previous fiscal year, the deceased included five Indian nationals, three Nepali citizens, and one American national, indicating a rise in fatalities over the past year.
Health Officials Advise Travelers to Take Precautions
Health experts have warned that senior citizens, people with physical disabilities, and individuals suffering from chronic illnesses remain at greater risk of developing high-altitude sickness while traveling to high-elevation destinations such as Mustang. Medical professionals advise visitors to ascend gradually, remain well hydrated, avoid excessive physical exertion during the initial days of travel, and seek immediate medical attention if symptoms such as severe headache, dizziness, nausea, shortness of breath, or confusion develop.
With Mustang continuing to attract thousands of domestic and international tourists and religious pilgrims each year, health authorities have urged travelers to prioritize proper acclimatization and follow medical advice to reduce the risk of altitude-related illnesses.
