Trekkers facing tough time for want of health facilities

Lamjung, September 15

Lack of health facilities along the world-famous Annapurna Circuit has been affecting trekkers for long.

There are only two health facilities along the trekking route running up to an altitude of 5,416 metres from the sea level.

Tourists traversing the route are often exposed to high altitude sickness resulting in unfortunate loss of lives. Trekkers suffering from other ailments while traversing the route also have limited options when it comes to their health.

Local tourism entrepreneur Binod Gurung of Manang rued the lack of health facilities on the trekking route. “There are limited health facilities on the way, especially on the high altitude segment of the route, the trekkers are risking their lives,” he said.

There is a health facility in Manang at an altitude of 2000m, whereas the other health facility on the route is only in Mustang. The trekking route that starts from Lamjung district headquarters Beshi Shahar typically takes 22 days to cover.

“Due to lack of adequate health facilities on the circuit, many a times tourists cut short through the circuit, while at other times they have to lose their lives,” said another trekking entrepreneur.

As many as 70 to 100 tourists trek on the route every day during trekking season. “As the season has just started, more trekking tourists are expected on the route,” said Annapurna Conservation Area Manang chief Babural Tiruwa, seeking the attention of the government to improve health services on the route.