JUMLA, Dec 15: Twelve locals who had gone to pick various herbs a few days ago have gone missing in Jumla amid heavy snowfall.
Those people who had reached the Shera Fulbari Patan area of Jumla have not returned to their homes yet, according to local residents.
"They have gone out of contact since Thursday," said ward chairperson Sher Bhadur Bora of Tila rural municipality.
Heavy snowfall throws life out of gear in Jumla
According to the chairperson, the missing are Dhan Bhadur Bora, Chabi Raj Bora, Janga Raout, Sum Bhadur Bora, Narabir Bora, Tulu Bora, Nalilal Raout, Surya Raout, Kalpana Bora, Lauri Bora, Reshma Bora and Man Maya Bora of Dipu village of Tila rural municipality.
Likewise, Bin Bhadur Bora of Tila-1 who was coming from the area with his donkey has died because of severe cold. "He died while returning home" informed ward chairperson Bora. However, four others have returned to their homes safely.
Locals have urged the government and stakeholders to rescue the missing people.
According to the ward chairperson, the local administration has already been directed to send the rescue team in the area from where people went missing. "We have already sent a letter to the central government," informed assistant chief district officer Devendra Shrestha.
Minister for Internal affairs and justice of Karnali Province Naresh Bandari has also stressed the need for strong collaboration between local and central government to launch rescue operations.
There are 4 women and 6 men among those 12 missing in Jumla.
