New Delhi: The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has said 150 pilgrims, who were
stuck in inclement weather on their way to Kailash Manasarovar, have been
evacuated. In Hilsa and Simikot around 500 yatris were stranded on Sunday.
(SEE: Two
routes to Kailash Manasarovar)
"As many as 50 pilgrims have been evacuated from Hilsa to Simikot and around
100 from Simikot to Nepalganj. However, due to bad weather only a limited
number of sorties could be carried out on Simikot-Hilsa sector by helicopter
yesterday (on Sunday). Today, the rescue operations have again started, but bad
weather is hampering work," said MEA official spokesperson Vikas Swarup in a
statement on Monday.
According to the Nepal police, there are around 250 pilgrims in Hilsa currently and
almost a similar number of pilgrims in Simikot.
"Today (on Monday), evacuation operations have started, but are being hampered
by inclement weather. Our Mission in Kathmandu is in touch with senior officers
such as Chief Secretary, Foreign Secretary, Home Secretary, Chief of Army Staff,
DGMO, etc, as well as senior police authorities on the ground," said Swarup,
adding they are continuing to be seized of the matter and have assured all
possible assistance subject to weather conditions.
Stating although there is no shortage of essential items, Swarup said the situation
can normalise only when regular air services can be undertaken in an uninterrupted
manner every day.
"Our Mission is deploying First Secretary (Consular) Pranav Ganesh and a staff
member to Simikot for situational awareness and coordinating with tour operators
and GON agencies on the ground," he added.
The MEA organises this yatra during June to September each year through two
different routes - the Lipulekh Pass in Uttarakhand and the Nathu La Pass in
Sikkim. The yatra is open to eligible Indian citizens holding valid Indian passports
who wish to proceed to Kailash Mansarovar for religious purposes.
The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, which is known for its religious value, cultural
significance, physical beauty and thrilling nature, has been recognised by the
Indian Mountaineering Foundation as a trekking expedition. It is undertaken by
hundreds of people every year and holds religious importance for Hindus, Jains and
Buddhists.
