Around 300 Nepalis are currently stranded in Purang, Tibet, as heavy snowfall has obstructed the Hilsa-Simkot road, preventing their return from the north.
According to Sam Chen, a Nepali in Purang, many of those stuck are from the Humla district, with over 150 hailing from Namkha Rural Municipality.
These individuals traveled to Purang, also known as Taklakot, for trade, work, and other reasons but are unable to return due to the snow blockage.
Heavy Snow Disrupts Access to Humla
Purang, located in China’s Tibet Autonomous Region, serves as a trade hub linking Tibet to Nepal via the Hilsa border point.
The severe snowfall has halted transportation along the Hilsa-Simkot route, making foot travel unsafe as well.
Consequently, Nepali traders and residents who visited Purang for various purposes are now stranded.
The stranded individuals report facing challenges related to accommodation, food, and other essentials.
They have urged authorities to clear the snow and reopen the route as soon as possible or arrange alternative transportation for their return.
Over 150 from Namkha
Reports indicate that more than half of the stranded Nepalis from Humla district are from Namkha Rural Municipality.
Additionally, some Indian citizens are also among those stuck in Purang due to the harsh weather and road closures.
The situation has raised concerns among residents in northern Humla, as many who recently returned from China cannot proceed to their destinations.
Urgent Need to Clear the Road
Humla Chief District Officer Bholanath Guragain stated that the traders and residents became stranded due to the snowstorm blocking the Hilsa-Simkot route.
Guragain assured that the road would be cleared once the snow is removed.
It is important to note that this route has previously faced blockages from landslides and snowfall as well.
Recently, there have been reports of similar road blockages between Simkot and Hilsa, necessitating efforts from authorities to restore access for people and goods.
Stranded Nepalis Call for Rescue Efforts
Those stranded have requested that authorities take immediate action to clear the snow. If delays continue, they have also urged the government to coordinate with relevant agencies to arrange alternative transportation for their return.
With ongoing snowfall in the high Himalayan region, it has become challenging for authorities to mobilize machinery and personnel to clear the blocked route.
The Hilsa-Simkot road is a vital trade link between Nepal and Tibet. Timely clearance of this road is essential, as its closure could negatively impact trade and disrupt the movement of goods and people.