Dhangadhi, Aug. 18 -- Minister for Physical Infrastructure Development Sunil Lamsal was in Baitadi on Sunday during a field inspection of the province's hill districts when he fell ill. Dr Pabin Upadhyay, who examined him at his hotel, said he had symptoms of a viral respiratory infection.

Lamsal was given medication in Baitadi but was later evacuated by army helicopter to Dhangadhi. After examination by military doctors, he was flown to Kathmandu aboard an army Skytruck and taken to Chhauni Hospital. He was discharged that night and prescribed antibiotics for five days, according to his personal secretary, Nirmal Gyawali.

Lamsal had fever, a sore throat and weakness, Gyawali said. Doctors in Dhangadhi also found that his breathing was ...