Re: 'The road to Lo' by Abhishek Basnyat (#159). On a recent visit to the fabled Kingdom of Lo, we were saddened to see evidence of improved trade links between Lo Monthang and China-what must have been once pristine villages are now littered with garbage of Chinese origin, discarded plastic washing powder wrappers in streams, and everything from shoes, clothing, cans and broken liquor bottles lying on the main thoroughfares of towns like Tsrang and Lo. Even chortens marking the passes are littered. While tourists are made to account for every can and plastic item they carry into the area, locals are free to do as they please. The ACAP officials at the check point in Kagbeni seem to be aware of the problem and, apparently, have been unsuccessful at controlling the growing pollution menace. Who wants to pay $100 a day to encounter scenes reminiscent of Kathmandu? It is time for a wakeup call. This unique environment and culture must be saved from an environmentally devastating 'invasion' that is riding the trails of improved trade links.

S Walton, email