The foot trail to reach Nar and Phu VDCs in Manang remains obstructed by landslides and avalanches on various parts of the quake-affected areas, preventing the movement of both people and mules for the past three weeks.
Chief District Officer Devendra Lamichanne said altogether 30 security personnel from Rambandh Battalion, Manang, District Police Office, and VDC Secretary, including the officials of Health Post, have been deployed to clear the debris along the way and ensure free and easy movement.
“They are making efforts to clear the way since the past 10 days,” said Lamichhane, adding that their task has be complicated by the very narrow foot trail and debris of avalanche strewn everywhere.
Chief of Rambandh Battalion Major Durga Bahadur Thapa said that they are working under very high pressure and risk.
“We are facing great difficulty in doing our work due to the continuous landslides along the way,” said Major Thapa, adding that the situation is further compounded by the fact that the place lies at an altitude of 2,500 to 3, 500 meters above sea level.
The team has repaired a suspension bridge near Hulaki Odar while attempting to clear the obstructions which has so far prevented them from reaching Panidhara, Hulaki Odar and Dharmashala.
Likewise, Nar and Phu VDCs are currently reeling under acute food shortage as they are virtually cut off from the rest of the country due to landslides obstructing the narrow foot trail. District Development Officer Gopal Aryal warned that the two VDCs may face famine if food items do not reach there by the end of May. According to District Disaster Management Committee (DDMC), around 400 houses are affected by the Great Earthquake in the mountainous district. “Chame, Khangsar, Tankimanang, Bhakra, Pisang, including Thanche VDCs have been greatly affected by the devastating quake and subsequent aftershocks. Eight government buildings have been completely destroyed by the earthquake whereas 12 are partially damaged,” said DSP Rajendrababu Regmi.
Meanwhile, CDO Lamichhhane informed that majority of houses made of mud and stones have been destroyed by the tremors.
Man Bahadur Gurung, owner of Hotel Paradise in Manang, said they have been compelled to remain in the dark due to the regular power cuts. One hydropower was completely destroyed whereas two others were partially damaged by the quake. Similarly, 18 out of 22 schools operating in the district were partially damaged in the quake.
Furthermore, 18 (monasteries) were completely destroyed whereas 16 partially destroyed in the devastation wrought by the earthquake in the district.
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