SOLUKHUMBU, August 9: Pashi Sherpa of Salleri, the district headquarters of Solukhumbu, is increasingly concerned about the rising risk of mosquito-borne diseases in the area. Previously, mosquitoes were hardly found in this mountainous region of Koshi Province, but their presence is now noticeable.

Locals have observed a significant increase in the mosquito population in Salleri, with some attributing their arrival to motor vehicles. "They may have gradually adapted to the temperature here," said KB Ghimire. Residents have noted hotter summers and less frequent snowfall in winter.

According to the Field Office of Hydrology and Meteorology in Salleri, temperatures now range between 25-28 degrees Celsius during the day, with morning and evening temperatures at 22-23 degrees Celsius. This rise in temperature has created favorable conditions for mosquito breeding.

The problem extends beyond Salleri to other areas like Sotang, Nechasalyan, and Mapya Dudhkoshi. People in these regions have started using mosquito nets and repellents. Ram Bahadur Thapa mentioned that mosquitoes are now seen as far as Kharkhola, a settlement below Lukla.

Rajan Thapa, who is knowledgeable about climate change, stated that rising temperatures are negatively impacting local life and crops. He believes that the temperature increase is also contributing to the higher incidence of dengue fever.

The Health Office Solukhumbu reported 30 cases of dengue across the district in the past month. According to Ashok Siwakoti, the office's pandemic focal person, 27 cases are from Sotang rural municipality, and almost all the infected had no recent travel history, indicating local transmission.

In response, the health office has launched a 'mosquito larva search and destroy' campaign and is raising awareness about dengue prevention methods. -- RSS