Sagarmatha: The cereals like wheat, barley, and buckwheat produced organically in the Sagarmatha region have seen a decline in recent years. The erratic weather patterns, rising temperatures, and dryness have severely impacted normal cultivation and production in the Himalayan region.
According to National News Agency Nepal, local Pasang Lhamu Sherpa expressed concerns over the diminishing yields, stating, “We used to have ample production of buckwheat and uwa. Now, we’re forced to leave the arable land uncultivated. Extreme weather patterns, lack of water/rain, and depleting soil fertility have made it difficult to grow crops. The yield is meager these days.”
The residents of the Sagarmatha region have complained about the direct impact of climate change, with women and children facing nutritional issues due to low production. Health workers have reported that pregnant women are particularly affected by the shortage of nutritious food.
Ngimdoma Sherpa, a local health worker, highlighted the potential health issues for both pregnant women and newborns if nutritious food is not ensured. She mentioned that the dwindling agricultural production due to climate change has led to increased dependency on imported food items, which are subpar in quality, affecting health.
Tenjing Jangbu Sherpa from Chhukum of the Khumbu region noted a sharp decline in crop yields, particularly the special species of Himalayan buckwheat, attributing this decline to climate change. He questioned the viability of farming, asking, “As the farming gives no yield, why to involve in it?”
Several national and international documents and reports on climate change have pointed out that snowmelt in upper hilly and mountainous areas is occurring at an accelerated rate, adversely affecting human life and agriculture.
The issue is compounded by trash left by climbers, polluting the gateway to the world’s highest peak. Non-biodegradable items like plastics litter the area, affecting its scenic beauty. Pasang Sherpa, a hotel entrepreneur, emphasized the need for a clean environment in this touristy place.
Local Toya Kumar Shrestha from Lukla lamented, “Once snow-clad and shining mountains are getting bare.” The pollution and rising temperatures are additional causes for concern.