Solukhumbu. The Sagarmatha region has received heavy snowfall since this morning. Snowfall is taking place in areas higher than Dingboche of Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality while rainfall is taking place in Namche Bazaar and surrounding areas.

Lamakaji Sherpa, chairperson of the Sagarmatha Pollution Control Committee, said, “It has snowed heavily above Dingboche, it is raining in the lower areas and tourists are inside hotels.” It is not possible to get out. ’

It is estimated that there are more than three thousand foreign tourists in the area at present. Around 800 foreign tourists arrived in Lukla from Kathmandu on Monday alone. The District Administration Office has urged the tourists not to travel as there is a risk of tourists getting lost due to snowfall. Chief District Officer Lila Kumari KC Pandey said the tourists have been requested to stay safe and stay in hotels or settlements as the weather is unfavorable. ’

The district administration has kept rescue teams on standby. According to Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Manojit Kunwar of the District Police Office, there is a temporary police post in Dingboche and they are in constant touch with the police to get information about the tourists.

It is estimated that there are around two thousand foreign tourists above Dingboche. Incessant snowfall and rain have increased the cold. Pemba Sherpa, a local of Khumjung, said, “It has been very cold since this morning and the village has been covered with snow. ’

Normal life in the Khumbu region has been affected due to incessant snowfall. Namche Bazaar, which is filled with crowds of tourists, is deserted. “The snow has provided a beautiful scenery, but it has made daily life difficult,” said Kopila Ghatani, a teacher from Khumjung.