Severe weather has disrupted trekking routes to Everest Base Camp and the Khumbu region, leaving many trekkers stranded and facing significant challenges. In response to the ongoing difficulties, the Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal (TAAN) has coordinated with the Nepali Army to carry out rescue efforts for those affected.
Due to technical issues preventing the use of the Army’s helicopters, a Sky Truck plane has been placed on standby. However, since this is a military aircraft, strict air safety measures will be enforced, and flights will only be conducted when weather conditions allow for safe operations. “We are ensuring full adherence to air safety measures, and the plane will not take off until the weather is deemed safe for flying,” TAAN stated.
The organization has also clarified that evacuation flights have been prioritized, and as such, no regular flights between Kathmandu and Manthali have been scheduled for the time being. However, flight routes between Kathmandu, Lukla, and Manthali are being maintained for emergency evacuations:
i. Kathmandu to Lukla and back
ii. Lukla to Manthali and back
iii. Manthali to Kathmandu and back
For trekkers unable to reach the Khumbu region due to adverse weather conditions, TAAN has advised trekking companies to work closely with tourists, ensuring their consent before guiding them on alternative treks. This practice is already widely known and implemented by trekking agencies across Nepal.
Despite TAAN’s diligent efforts to manage the situation, the organization acknowledges the challenges posed by unpredictable weather and technical issues. “We are deeply concerned that, despite our best efforts, we have been unable to provide the expected level of service due to weather and other technical difficulties,” TAAN stated, expressing their commitment to continue working toward safe evacuations and the well-being of all trekkers in the region.
Source: TAAN
