Saipal (bajhang), June 30 -- For the past 18 years, Asauji Bohara, a resident of Dhalaun in Saipal Rural Municipality, has been going to the highlands to pick yarsagumba, the caterpillar fungus (Cordyceps sinensis).

This year, the 41-year-old, also an executive member of the rural municipality, went to the highlands to inspect the area, since the collection of yarsagumba has been banned in view of the coronavirus pandemic.

Her visit to the highlands in mid-May left her baffled by the sight of garbage and litter scattered across the area.

"I visited the Aaulagad area. It is littered with plastic, glass bottles and rags, among others. People seem to have consumed liquor and discarded the bottles in the highlands," said Bohara.

Aaulagad,...