13 people, including 9 foreigners killed due to high altitude sickness in Mustang

Mustang, May 31

Thirteen tourists, including nine foreign nationals, have died in Mustang due to high altitude sickness as of May 29 this year. The fatalities occurred among religious pilgrims visiting the Muktinath area, a popular high-altitude destination.

The District Police Office reported that these individuals succumbed to complications while receiving treatment at a provincial hospital in Jomsom after experiencing health issues in the Waragung Muktinath area and Gharapjhong Rural Municipality. High altitude sickness poses a significant risk for travellers in Nepal, particularly in regions like Annapurna, Manang, and Mustang, where altitude-related illnesses have resulted in numerous deaths in recent years.

Police Inspector Santosh Basyal noted that among the deceased, three were Nepali nationals and the rest were foreign tourists. The low oxygen levels above 3,000 meters exacerbate health risks for visitors, especially those from lower altitudes who may not be adequately prepared. In response to the rising incidents of altitude sickness, local authorities and organisations have initiated public awareness programmes.

The Provincial Public Health Office, along with the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) and local security agencies, have implemented various measures, including the installation of awareness signboards along key tourist routes.

Additionally, hotels in the Waragung-1 Muktinath area have been equipped with portable oxygen cylinders and non-toxic medications to assist tourists. Despite these efforts, the lack of sufficient information provided by travel agencies and hotels regarding altitude risks continues to contribute to the prevalence of high altitude sickness among visitors.

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