Nepal has once again found itself in headlines, this time due to escalating political unrest and violent protests that have left several Indian tourists stranded. Among those affected are 43 pilgrims from Bhavnagar district of Gujarat, who are currently stuck in Pokhara and have made an urgent appeal for assistance.
Tourists from Gujarat Stranded in Pokhara
The stranded group includes residents from Bhavnagar city as well as nearby villages such as Nari, Manalaka, Bhutiya, and Vartej. They had traveled to Nepal on a 22-day religious and sightseeing tour with a local agency named Maa Tours and Travels. While the trip began smoothly, the situation took a dramatic turn after they reached Pokhara, a well-known tourist hub in Nepal.
The group reported that they are facing difficulties due to ongoing demonstrations, road blockades, and incidents of arson. Protesters have taken to the streets, shouting slogans and creating a tense atmosphere that has left the visitors feeling unsafe. As a result, the tourists remain confined to their hotel, where they are being forced to stay indoors and pay higher prices for basic amenities.
A Video Message Seeking Urgent Help
To ensure their concerns reached the authorities back home, the pilgrims recorded a video from Pokhara and shared it with Bhavnagar West MLA Jitu Vaghani. In the video, the tourists confirmed they were safe but expressed fear about the worsening situation outside. They urged the MLA to arrange safe passage for their return to India.
According to the tourists, even though they are not directly harmed, the uncertainty and violent environment have created a stressful situation. The video appeal has quickly circulated in their hometowns, prompting families and local representatives to demand swift government action.
Response from Local Leaders and the Government
MLA Jitu Vaghani has already spoken to all stranded tourists, assuring them that necessary steps are being taken. He also contacted central ministers and informed the government about the situation. Authorities have promised quick intervention to ensure the group’s safety.
Meanwhile, local municipal representatives have also joined hands to assist the families of the stranded pilgrims. The coordination between local leaders and central authorities has given the tourists hope that they will soon return home safely.
Why the Situation in Nepal Escalated
In recent days, Nepal has been witnessing a surge in political demonstrations due to disputes between ruling and opposition parties. The protests, which started peacefully, quickly turned violent in some regions, especially in areas like Pokhara where tourism plays a major role in the economy.
Shops, roads, and marketplaces have been affected by rallies and unrest. For foreign tourists, including those from India, the situation has created serious safety challenges. Roadblocks and sudden shutdowns have also disrupted transport, making it difficult for visitors to move around or exit the country without assistance.
Emotional Stress on Families in Gujarat
Back in Bhavnagar and surrounding villages, families of the stranded tourists are anxious. Many of them had sent their relatives on the religious trip with hopes of a spiritual journey, but now they are glued to news updates and waiting for positive word from the government.
Community leaders have also expressed concerns that such incidents may impact the enthusiasm for future group tours to Nepal. Gujarat has always had a strong tradition of religious and cultural trips to neighboring countries, but the latest crisis serves as a reminder of the uncertainties that can arise during foreign travel.
Safety Precautions for Future Travel
This incident also highlights the importance of safety planning while traveling abroad. Experts suggest that travelers should:
- Keep regular contact with Indian embassies and consulates.
- Register their trip details with authorities when traveling to politically sensitive regions.
- Stay informed about local news and political situations before and during their trip.
- Always have an emergency backup plan with their tour operator.
Such measures can ensure quicker response and reduce panic in case of unexpected crises.
Table: Key Details of the Incident
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Country Affected | Nepal |
| Location of Tourists | Pokhara |
| Number of Stranded Tourists | 43 |
| Origin | Bhavnagar city and nearby villages (Nari, Manalaka, Bhutiya, Vartej) |
| Tour Operator | Maa Tours and Travels |
| Main Cause of Stranding | Political unrest and violent protests |
| Current Status | Safe in hotel, appealed for help |
| Government Action | MLA Jitu Vaghani and central ministers informed |
Also read: Nepal Protest Updates: 14 Dead, 100 Injured in Gen-Z Uprising Over Social Media Ban
A Reminder of Travel Risks Abroad
The Bhavnagar incident is not the first time Indian tourists have faced such challenges in Nepal. Political instability, though temporary, has often disrupted tourism in the Himalayan nation. While Nepal remains one of the most popular destinations for Indian travelers due to its cultural ties and natural beauty, such situations highlight the importance of caution.
As the government works to bring the 43 stranded pilgrims back home, the episode serves as a lesson for travelers to remain alert, updated, and prepared. Families in Gujarat continue to pray for the safe return of their loved ones, while authorities maintain that every effort is being made to resolve the crisis.
Also read: Nepal Protest Social Media: Understanding the Crisis and Its Impact
Conclusion
The crisis in Nepal has placed 43 Gujarati pilgrims in a challenging situation, but swift action from local leaders and the Indian government is expected to ensure their safe return. This incident is a stark reminder that while travel brings joy and exploration, it also requires preparedness for sudden emergencies. As the world watches, hopes remain high that peace will soon return to Nepal, allowing not just these stranded pilgrims but also the tourism industry to breathe easy again.
