Trekking in Nepal Gets a Green Light
Annapurna Region, which is one of the most popular trekking regions, gets a green light by the team of experts (Miyamoto) three months after deadly earthquake struck Nepal. Nepal government, trekking companies and development agencies have welcomed the first official report prepared by assessment organization on earthquake related damage. This positive report is seen as the first step to recover tourism industry and economy of the country.
Trekking in Nepal and tourism industries are the major income source of the country as the statistics shows among the 0.8 million visitors, more than 40% are for touristic purposes like for tours, trekking, peak climbing, mountaineering and other adventures. And the local trek operators have said that they needed the evidence to reassure it is safe for travelers to embark for trekking in Nepal at Annapurna region and this report has helped for a same cause.
Various government officials from tourism sectors have said that there has been decline in number of incoming visitors since the earthquake. They have added that tourism sector is very important for Nepalese economy, Nepalese people but first it must be made clear through assessment by professionals that it is safe to visit Nepal and embark for trekking and other activities. Earthquake assessment was operated by geotechnical earthquake engineering firm Miyamoto, structural engineering experts and conservation officers form ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Project). The assessment project was funded by Samrath-UKAID on behalf of Nepal government.
Dr Kit Miyamoto, the technical team leader and a structural earthquake engineer, said: “The aim of the report was to develop an overall understanding of the extent of the damage from the earthquakes so that we could assess the safety of the region’s trekking routes.
“Conservation officers from Annapurna Conservation Area Project and trekking guides from the region were critical in helping the technical team navigate the almost 200 kilometers of trekking routes that were surveyed for earthquake-related damage.
“Annapurna is ready to open for business. The report highlights areas where organisations can help Nepal rebuild stronger than ever. We now have the information needed to take action. ”
After this earthquake assessment it is believed that tourists will slowly start visiting the country and book their holidays for upcoming peak October season.
Source: http://www.travelweekly.co.uk/