Pokhara, August 7
Annapurna Rural Municipality in Kaski district, which also includes the Annapurna Base Camp under its jurisdiction, has decided to impose a ban on operation of helicopters here.
The local government has argued that the decision was made so as to protect flora and fauna of the region.
The decision will affect ‘rich’ tourists, both domestic and international, who would otherwise charter choppers to make a visit to the popular tourism.
Of late, some companies had concentrated their services along Pokhara-Machhapuchhre and Pokhara-Annapurna routes.
The Rural Municipality’s Chairman Yubaraj Kunwar says the decision was made after it was found that vibration and sound the flights would produce were chasing away various animals.
He warns that the local government would take action against helicopter operators if they defy the rule.
The decision will come into effect from August 17.
Earlier, the Annapurna Conservation Area Project had also made a similar decision, but failed to implement it.
But, the local government says it will promote trekking culture by banning the choppers.
