Key Takeaways:

• Three more bodies were recovered on Wednesday, raising the Himlung avalanche death toll to seven
• The latest victims were identified as Ash Gurung, Suraj Rai and Kalam Budha
• Search operations are being led by IFMGA/NNMGA mountain guides Pasang Kaji Sherpa and Bikram Karki
• Rescue teams will continue recovery efforts despite difficult weather and mountain conditions

KATHMANDU, OCTOBER 1 Rescue teams have recovered three more bodies from the avalanche-hit Himlung Himal Base Camp in Manang on Wednesday, bringing the total number of bodies recovered to seven, according to the Nepal National Mountain Guide Association (NNMGA). The latest recovery operation, conducted in coordination with Himalayan Holidays Nepal, recovered the bodies of Ash Gurung of Gorkha, Suraj Rai of Khotang and Kalam Budha of Rukum on Wednesday. Four bodies had been recovered during the previous two days. They were identified as Chhebi Bhote and Pasang Bhote of Sankhuwasabha, Ghanashyam Rai of Khotang, and Birendra Gurung of Gorkha. According to the NNMGA, the search and recovery mission will continue on Thursday under the leadership of IFMGA/NNMGA mountain guides Pasang Kaji Sherpa and Bikram Karki. The association said five experienced climbing guides and members of the rescue team will continue the operation despite challenging terrain, unstable snow conditions and difficult mountain weather. NNMGA stated that it remains committed to continuing the recovery mission while giving the highest priority to the safety of rescuers working in the avalanche zone. The avalanche struck Himlung Himal Base Camp on September 27 after heavy snowfall and continuous rain, burying expedition support workers under deep snow. The association had earlier reported 16 people missing, including two climbing guides and 14 kitchen staff members. The two guides and two kitchen workers were among the first bodies recovered, while a number of kitchen staff remain unaccounted for. Rescuers say recovery work will continue as weather and safety conditions permit.