The team reached Ripar in Baruwa VDC and Larke of Bhortang VDC by helicopter on Sunday and collected soil samples from the area to be tested further, in order to determine the cause of recurring landslides.

As per the preliminary report of the team, there is no possibility of human settlement in Larke. Likewise, despite the risks being relatively low, the team has advised that the locals stay away from Ripar due to frequent landslides in the surrounding areas.

Quoting the geologists, Chief District Officer Krishna Prasad Gyawali said that these were only preliminary reports and that the facts will be known only after the team tests the soil samples. Gyawali said that they had reached Marmin, Phoolpingkatti, Gumba, Tatopani, Baruwa  and Bhortang during their first leg.

Meanwhile, rescue personnel from Melamchi-based Bhimkali Battalion of Nepal Army have rescued 24 people from Larke on Sunday. The army choppers had dropped them off at neighbouring Bhortang VDC.

According to Major Prem Hamal of the Battalion, there are about 40-45 households awaiting rescue in Larke, which cannot even be reached on foot.

Stating that Yangri, Ripar, Bolgaun, Soonchaur, Gangkharka, Wangdang, Dale and Bathro settlements of Baruwa were at high-risk, Hamal said that the locals will be evacuated and taken to a safer location as per the advice of the geologists.

The VDCs wear a deserted look as most of them have already fled to other locations while setting their livestock free.