Western hills draped in snow (photos)

KATHMANDU: Widespread snowfall since Tuesday night has covered large parts of Nepal’s high hill and Himalayan districts, disrupting daily life and transport while raising hopes for improved winter crop yields.

From Mustang in the north to Baitadi and Bajura in the far west, hills and mountain ridges have turned white under heavy snowfall.

While the cold wave triggered by the snow has affected normal life, farmers are optimistic as the long-awaited moisture is expected to boost winter crops.

In Mustang, heavy snowfall began Tuesday night, blocking the Kagbeni–Korala road section completely due to snow and rainfall.

In several areas, snow accumulation has exceeded two feet, severely disrupting movement.

Similarly, thick snowfall has been reported across Karnali Province, including Humla, Mugu, Dolpa, Jumla and Kalikot.

According to the District Police Office, up to one foot of snow has accumulated in higher areas, including Simikot, the district headquarters of Humla.

Air services from Simikot Airport have been suspended, and roads connecting Limy, Nyalu, Yari and Hilsa remain closed.

In Sudurpaschim Province, Baitadi and Bajura have witnessed heavy snowfall since Wednesday morning. Areas such as Sigas, Khodpe, Anarkholi and Dholyomod in Baitadi are blanketed in snow.

In Bajura, snowfall has occurred in the high-altitude regions of Badimalika, Budhiganga, Himali and Gaumul rural municipalities.

Daily life has been severely affected in places like Bichhya, Rugin and Badhu of Himali Rural Municipality.

Meanwhile, the Dhorpatan Valley in Baglung district of Gandaki Province has also turned white.

Freezing temperatures have caused water sources to freeze, making movement difficult for locals.

Thick snow has also accumulated in the Rig and Patihalne areas of Nisikhola.

Despite the hardships faced by the general public, the snowfall is being seen as a blessing for agriculture.

Agricultural experts say the snow and rainfall, following a prolonged dry spell, will significantly support winter crops.

Roshan Thakali, Chief of the Agriculture Section at Gharapjhong Rural Municipality in Mustang, said snowfall has provided major relief to apple orchards and crops such as naked barley, buckwheat and barley.

Similarly, Bajura Agriculture Knowledge Centre Chief Jasiram Sahani noted that the rain and snow will help wheat crops thrive.

Farmers in Baitadi and Baglung are also confident of increased wheat and potato production this year.