Nagpur: Severe weather and difficult road conditions in Nepal have disrupted the return journey of 115 pilgrims and tourists from Nagpur. The group had to change its travel plans after weather conditions worsened, but all the travellers are reported to be safe.
The group left Nagpur on August 22 for a planned Nepal trip. They reached Gorakhpur on August 23 and continued their journey towards Kathmandu on August 24 in two tourist buses. After reaching Nepal, the travellers completed their scheduled religious activities and also visited several tourist attractions.
Problems began during the return journey when the group left Kathmandu for Janakpur on Thursday evening. The travellers were travelling in four smaller buses when weather conditions started deteriorating. As the situation became more challenging, the buses were turned back towards Kathmandu at around 11:15 pm.
With road conditions also becoming difficult, the travellers were eventually stopped at the Pashupatinath parking area. The decision was taken to avoid further travel until conditions became safer. According to information available from the group, 10 passengers had already left earlier in the morning.
Road Conditions Affect Return Journey
The worsening weather has also affected the movement of larger vehicles in the region. Travel coordinators are closely watching the situation and assessing when it will be safe for the group to resume its journey.
For the families of the travellers in Nagpur, the information that the group remains safe has brought considerable relief. Further movement will depend on weather conditions, road accessibility and instructions from local authorities.
Four Nagpur Pilgrims Safe in China
Separately, four pilgrims from Nagpur returning after completing the Kailash Mansarovar Parikrama have also been affected by the changing weather conditions.
The four pilgrims are currently staying at a safe location in Saga County, China. Pilgrims from Vadodara, Gujarat, are also reportedly with them. Their onward journey towards Kathmandu has been delayed because of the prevailing conditions.
Local coordinators and authorities are monitoring the situation and waiting for safer conditions before the pilgrims continue their journey.
At present, 115 Nagpur pilgrims and tourists in Nepal and four Nagpur pilgrims in Saga County are reported to be safe. Their return plans will be decided according to improvements in weather and road conditions.