Annapurna Conservation Area reports 21 deaths from high-altitude sickness last year

GANDAKI: The Annapurna Conservation Area, the renowned destination for trekking globally, reported 21 deaths due to altitude sickness during the fiscal year 2080-81 BS (2023-24).  Of them, six are Nepalis.

According to Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Chief, Dr Rabin Kadariya, among the dead, 11 are Indians, two are Malaysians, one is Ukrainian and one is Briton.

Most of the casualties took place along the Muktinath area in Mustang.

Some people suffering from altitude sickness were rescued by helicopters.

Kadariya said that the ACAP started archiving such incidents last year.

A journey to a high altitude demands special care. It should be undertaken gradually, getting adjusted to the atmospheric conditions, he said. Once the altitude sickness is sensed, one should promptly climb down, he said.

A human skeleton of a Swedish national who had been missing during the Mardi Peak trek was found recently after seven months of missing.

A sole trek along a long route is not recommended. It must be observed in a group or accompanied by a guide.

The ACAP welcomed 222,180 foreign tourists last year. Of them, 117,845 were from Asian countries, and 104,256 were from other countries.

The highest arrivals: 35,265 were in the month of Chaitra (March-April) and the lowest was 5, 401 in the month of Shrawan (July-August), the first month of the fiscal year.

Dr Kadariya said last year around 50,000 plus people visited the area compared to the previous fiscal year. A total of 172,510 people: 89,777 from South Asia and 82,733 visited the area during the fiscal year 2079-80 BS (2022-23).

The Annapurna Conservation Area spanning 7,600 square kilometers covers 89 wards of 16 local levels in Kaski, Lamjung, Manang, Myagdi, and Mustang.

Rich in natural beauty, bio-diversities, civilization, unique mountain life, and culture, the Annapurna Conservation Area is one of the most desired trekking routes for people from home and abroad.