Both the weather and the local protests have now cleared, and helicopters are again carrying climbers to and from Manaslu Base Camp.
Recently, villagers barred all flying to Samagaon to protest how climbers could enjoy the benefits of helicopters, but they could not, even in medical emergencies. The area around Manaslu is a restricted zone due to past issues with neighboring China, and airlifts for villagers were often refused or delayed. Samagaon lies right below Manaslu Base Camp and is a mandatory refueling stop between the mountain and Kathmandu.
MP steps in
Rajendra Bajgain, a Nepali Member of Parliament who was born in the region, has advocated for the end of the restrictions. He served as the mediator between the locals and Nepal’s Home Ministry. Yesterday, he reached an agreement between the two sides, based on the following conditions: First and most urgently, the locals must get an airlift immediately when requested, instead of waiting for days for a permit. Second, efforts will be made to ease the restrictions around Manaslu.
Rajendra Bajgain speaking to the locals in Samagaon last Sunday. Photo courtesy of Rajendra Bajgain
“The local Samagaon helicopter issue has been resolved,” Dawa Steven Sherpa confirmed from Base Camp. “Also, the weather has been clear and sunny since yesterday, and many climbers have already flown out [to] Kathmandu.” His own Asian Trekking team flew back to town today.
