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RECCO, a global leader in advanced rescue technology, has deployed its SAR Helicopter Detector system in Nepal, marking the 11th country to integrate this cutting-edge search-and-rescue technology. In collaboration with Simrik Air, the system aims to enhance search efforts for missing persons in the Himalayas.

Simrik Air crews and Nepali rescue specialists recently underwent extensive training on the RECCO system. The training was conducted in January by Bruno Jelk, former head of mountain rescue in Zermatt, alongside rescue specialist Matthias Hofer and RECCO instructor Tshering Pande Bhote, President of the Nepal Mountain Instructors Association (NMIA). The training included pilots from Simrik Air—Capt Siddartha Jung Gurung, Capt Surendra Paudel, and Capt Bimal Sharma Sapkota—along with six mountain guides from the Nepal National Mountain Guides Association (NNMGA) and other Nepalese rescue experts.

“The RECCO system appears to be highly helpful for rapid search and rescue operations in the Himalayas,” said Tul Singh Gurung, President of NNMGA. “The RECCO SAR Helicopter Detector will be more effective in search and rescue operations for missing people. Since the helicopter can fly up to 6,000 meters, we can also employ the detector in case of avalanche accidents at high altitudes. I want to express my gratitude to the RECCO family and the teaching team.”

The training covered both low-altitude searches in open terrain around Pokhara and high-altitude searches in snow-covered and crevassed areas in the Chumrung and Annapurna Base Camp region. More operators will be trained in the coming months to expand the system’s reach.

The RECCO SAR Helicopter Detector enables rapid, large-area searches for missing individuals year-round, scanning up to one square kilometer in just six minutes. Since its introduction in 2016, the system has proven effective for locating lost hikers, trekkers, and mountaineers, reducing search times and minimizing risks for rescue teams. It complements the RECCO handheld detector, which is already widely used in Nepal.

“For over a decade, RECCO handheld detectors have been utilized in Nepal,” said Capt Siddartha Jung Gurung of Simrik Air. “The RECCO SAR system will contribute to saving lives here in Nepal. We’ll be able to locate you if you’re carrying a rescue reflector, whether you’re a trekker or a mountaineer in need of rescue.”

Currently, 10 handheld detectors are positioned with key rescue partners, including NMIA, NNMGA, Simrik Air, Seven Summit Treks, Heli Everest, Imagine Nepal, and Adventure 6000. These devices are also dispatched to 8,000-meter peak base camps at the start of each climbing season, enabling rapid response to avalanches and missing person incidents.

Starting with the 2024 climbing season, new regulations in Nepal mandate that all climbers on peaks above 6,000 meters carry search-and-rescue equipment. The RECCO reflector is one such option that meets these requirements, ensuring climbers are searchable in case of emergencies.

“The addition of the RECCO SAR Helicopter Detector in Nepal is an important milestone to make more people searchable year-round,” said Fredrik Steinwall, CEO of RECCO. “Our technology is designed to make rescue operations faster and safer, and with this new system, we’re proud to enhance safety in the Himalayas. Together, we’re better equipped than ever to support local rescue teams and the growing number of adventurers in the region.”

RECCO reflectors are embedded in outdoor gear from over 150 leading brands, including Nepali brand Everest Outfit. Other international brands like SCARPA, Kailas, Millet, Blackyak, and Asolo also integrate reflectors into their high-altitude equipment.

Attachable RECCO reflectors can be purchased online or locally through Samatra Trading in Kathmandu, as well as from NNMGA, NMIA, and Everest Outfit’s shop in Thamel.

At least 11 persons were injured after a cooking gas cylinder exploded at a momo shop in Kamalpokhari, Kathmandu on Thursday.

Among the injured, two persons are in critical condition, according to District Police Range, Kathmandu.

Superintendent of Police, Apil Bohara, informed that those injured in the explosion have been taken to the Burn Hospital, Kirtipur for treatment.

The Duke of Edinburgh met a diverse range of participants undertaking the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award in Kathmandu today.

The Award, established in Nepal for ten years, has benefited over 6,000 young people through building lifelong skills and experiences, and is implemented by a team of over 500 volunteers.

At the British Embassy, The Duke presented 19 young Nepalis with the Gold Award (and two were awarded in absentia) – the highest achievement in the Award program and a culmination of hard work and self-development by the young people, reads a statement issued by the British Embassy in Kathmandu.

Separately The Duke met young participants from a range of backgrounds – including young people from government schools, the Scouts, SOS Children’s Villages, and those from underprivileged communities who benefit from the program funding from the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Foundation, of which the Duke is Chair of Trustees.

 At the award ceremony His Royal Highness said, “To achieve your Gold Award takes courage, commitment and tenacity – you should be exceptionally proud of what you’ve achieved.”

 Finally, at an evening reception hosted by His Majesty’s Ambassador Rob Fenn, the Duke and Duchess met over 200 people who represent the UK-Nepal friendship.

With a particular focus on young people and the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award, the Duke and Duchess interacted with a range of young people, including: those who are participating in the Awards, young entrepreneurs, women’s rights activists, tech experts, recipients of UK honors and Nepalis and Brits who represent a new generation of friendship between our countries.

At the reception, Sue Layden – whose father was the first director of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award in the UK and led the first successful Everest expedition - announced a new initiative that will support 10 young people to do their Award expedition in the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area where they will work with local schools and on a red panda conservation project.

Bhojpur, a district in the eastern hilly region of Nepal, is famous for khukuri. The Bhojpure khukuri, an essential weapon, made in the district is known across the country and abroad.

However, the khukuri industry is facing existential challenges in recent times owing to lack of artisans and raw materials.

The shortage of skilled persons to prepare khukuri is likely to grow more because of the exodus of youths. The youths who used to get skills from the earlier generation are opting for foreign jobs and study at present, said Ghanashyam Bishwokarma, one who runs a furnace to prepare khukuri.

"The number of furnaces used to heat and beat metal to prepare the popular weapon, khukuri, has radically declined in the district," he added. 

The areas producing the weapon are- Kot, Dalgaon, Gogane, Khawa, Khairang, Taksar, Bokhim, Danwa, Timma, Dingla, Deurali, and Jarayotar in the district.

The entrepreneurs complained that the raw materials like coal and sal wood were in short supply while the skilled workforce was also in severe decline, thereby creating the existential crisis of Bhujpure khukuri.

Proprietor of Ranjita Khukuri Industry, Dinesh Gajmer, said, "It is difficult to find artisans, resulting in a slump in khukuri production. However, there is growing demand for the weapon. The workforce available at present are paid much for continuing the profession."

The Bhojpure khukuri is not only used as a weapon but as a gift and decoration.

Varieties of khukuris are produced in the district such as sirupate, banspate, chitlange, kothimuda, panwala, dharkhole and budune.

Hira Shrestha, who runs Urmila Furnace Industry, reminded, "When then King Mahendra visited Bhojpur in 2027BS, a local from Bokhim, Singha Bahadur BK, had gifted him a khukuri, which helped in huge publicity of this product."

In a local market, a khukuri is sold from Rs 800 to 1,800. The rural areas largely use budune and banspate types of khukuri. In addition to local use, this weapon is sold to Dharan, Udayapur, Sankhuwasabha and Kathmandu city as well.

The entrepreneurs have been demanding the governments for assisting in preservation of the khukuri industry.

Construction of the Lower Solukhola Hydropower Project has neared completion. The hydropower project of 82-megawatt capacity achieved 95 percent physical progress till date.

It is being built at Tingla in the district.

The construction of a power house, tunnel way and installation of turbine and generator, among others have been completed in the project promoted by Lower Solu Hydropower Company. Company manager Dharmendra Gotame said the breakthrough of the penstock tunnel would be made in near future.

"We are planning to launch the commercial production of hydropower coming July," he shared.

Even the transmission line has seen 80 percent progress. The project was launched since September 2016 with the investment of Rs 16 billion provided as loan by the European Bank (International Funding Agency) including FMO. The project's completion has been aimed before September 2025.

It is a reservoir-based project. The reservoir has been set up at Salme area of Solukhumbu. The water is supplied through a tunnel way to the powerhouse set up at Bhadaure of Tingla, located some 6-km away from Salme.

The estimated cost of the project would increase because of geographical difficulty and a long tunnel way.

There are 700 workers in the project. Even the locals have got jobs.

With the completion of the project, the national transmission line would receive 23MW power in winter, while 82WM power in the rainy season.

The high mountain regions of Dolakha, including Kalinchowk, Shailung, Cherdung, and Kharidhunga, where snowfall typically begins in early October, are turning black. Snow has not fallen in these mountains for the past four years, and there is no forecast of snowfall in the upper regions or winter rain in the lower regions, even as February approaches.

Farmers in Dolakha’s highlands, who rely on snowmelt for irrigation after planting potatoes, are growing increasingly anxious. The lack of winter rain threatens to reduce potato yields. Dolakha, a district that encompasses both mountains and hills, is home to Gaurishankar Mountain, which rises from an altitude of 762 meters to 7,134 meters above sea level. Once covered in white, it is now darkening. The district has 40 mountains, both large and small.

Climate change has not only affected the Himalayas but also human life and wildlife. Farmers, particularly those engaged in large-scale potato cultivation across 3,200 hectares in Dolakha’s nine local levels, are struggling due to the absence of snow. Shailung Rural Municipality is the district’s largest producer of potatoes.

“January has ended, but there is still no rain. What can we do? We planted fewer potatoes, and now they are on the verge of drying up due to a lack of moisture,” lamented Bishal Shrestha, a farmer from Shailung. “Fertile lands can sustain some growth, but without rain, even those will suffer, and potato production will decline.” Most farmers in Shailung rely on potato farming as their primary livelihood.  

The absence of snowfall by the end of Magh has heightened concerns among Dolakha’s farmers. Locals are disheartened by the decreasing rainfall. In the past, the upper hills of Dolakha were blanketed in snow during winter, but now even the Himalayas remain barren, with their once-white peaks turning black.

The highlands of Dolakha, which were once cold at this time of year, are experiencing unusual warmth. In Charikot, the district headquarters, temperatures have already risen. Glaciers are melting at an alarming rate, and locals have been experiencing the direct effects of climate change for years. “When it snows, farming becomes easier, and production increases. Crops like potatoes, wheat, and millet thrive with snow, eliminating the need for separate irrigation,” said Shrestha.

Snowfall, which was once visible from November to February, has dwindled in recent years, with locals witnessing firsthand the consequences of climate change. The timing of snowfall has become unpredictable, and concerns are mounting over its impact on tourism.

Hotel entrepreneur Hari Oli noted that snowfall once brought a surge of tourists to Dolakha. “Three to four years ago, a significant number of visitors came to play in the snow in December. Hotels in Charikot and Kalinchowk used to be fully booked. Now, with no snow, tourism has plummeted,” he said.

Climate change is affecting not just the Himalayas but also farmers, businesses, wildlife, flowers, red-bellied trees, human life, and birds. Rain and snow no longer follow seasonal patterns, and even forest flowers are blooming out of season. The once-vibrant slopes are now dry, and the region’s natural beauty is fading.

The gradual decline of snowfall poses a long-term threat to native crops, flora, fauna, and birds, while also negatively impacting the tourism sector. Climate change—driven by human activities such as excessive resource exploitation, high energy consumption, and industrialization, as well as natural disasters like fires, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions—has disrupted every aspect of life. However, if human-induced environmental damage is curbed, the effects of climate change may still be mitigated.

World Cancer Day was observed on Feb 4 and ApEx interviewed three esteemed doctors specializing in cancer treatment to gain a deeper understanding of the fight against this disease. They shared their insights on cancer prevention, treatment advancements, and the misconception in Nepal. Their expertise sheds light on the evolving landscape of cancer care and the critical steps we can take to reduce cancer risk and improve outcomes.

Dr Anu Bajracharya, Sr consultant gynaecologist

Many people have the misconception that cancer will spread after biopsy and that cancer cannot be cured in Nepal. A few women have denied treatment once they find out that they have cancer. Recent advancements in research and innovation have significantly enhanced the detection and treatment of gynecological cancer. About 99.7 percent of cervical cancer cases are caused by persistent genital high risk oncogenic Human Papillomavirus (HPV). Lifestyle changes can help reduce the risk of cancer. Our government has recently started providing free HPV vaccination to girls upto 15 years old which is the milestone for preventing cervical cancer. They need to subsidize cancer treatment, reduce the cost of chemotherapy and increase funding and insurance schemes. Treatment centers need to be established not only in urban areas but also in rural areas. Mental health support is also crucial for cancer patients as the emotional and psychological toll of cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming and treatment often brings physical, mental and financial stress. 

Dr Bijesh Raj Ghimire, Sr consultant medical oncologist

One of the most common misconceptions people have about cancer is the belief that there is no cure and that recovery is impossible. In Nepal, a lot of people aren’t even aware that cancer can be treated in the country. There are trust issues and a lack of knowledge that contribute to this misunderstanding. The good news, however, is that ongoing research is leading to new discoveries and interventions for treating cancer. Advances in surgery and medical treatments are offering hope, chemotherapy, too, has evolved, and various therapy options are now available. 

Prevention is crucial, and there are two main factors that we can control: tobacco use and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Additionally, regular screenings and health checks can help catch potential issues early on, increasing the chances of successful treatment. A world free of tobacco would significantly reduce cancer rates—if tobacco use were eliminated, many cancers could be prevented altogether. I think the government must look into expanding insurance options for patients to help alleviate the financial burden of cancer treatment. The government should also work to expand cancer care in Nepal by building new hospitals and medical centers, and ensuring that doctors specializing in cancer care are available in medical colleges. 

Dr Sudip Shrestha, Sr consultant medical oncologist

In Nepal, there’s a lack of awareness about early cancer detection and treatment. Many people believe they must seek care abroad. Social media influencers often promote herbal remedies as cures, misleading people and potentially causing harm. This dangerous trend is growing, diverting attention from effective, proven treatments. Many people also think a biopsy is something that worsens or spreads cancer and is dangerous. Many studies are being conducted worldwide on cancer treatment, and whenever new methods or breakthroughs emerge, Nepal adopts them and achieves success in implementing them. 

Changing our lifestyle can reduce cancer risk by upto 50 percent. This includes cutting back on processed foods, red meats, and trendy cooking methods like roasting or barbecuing. Regular exercise, healthy eating, good environment and getting vaccinated on time also play a key role. The government’s initiative to provide financial support for cancer patients, with a focus on insurance, is good. However, if they could extend awareness campaigns and treatment options to every district and village in Nepal, it would be a significant step in reducing the number of cancer cases and improving early detection and care.

Nabil Bank organized an awareness program on safe and secure digital banking for Nepali migrant workers in Qatar.

Over a hundred Nepali workers participated in the event, titled ‘Ghar Ta Nepal,’ held in Qatar.

The program was conducted in coordination with Nabil Investment Banking Limited and Nabil Stock Dealer Limited.

Representatives from various departments of Nabil Bank engaged in interactive discussions on remittances, deposits, digital banking, loans, investments, financial literacy, savings, and financial service utilization.

A special segment introduced the ‘Nabil Skilled Migrant Entrepreneurship Loan,’ aimed at supporting returning migrant workers in establishing their businesses in Nepal.

Nepali Ambassador to Qatar, Ramesh Chandra Paudel, emphasized the importance of sending money through formal banking channels, stating, “Sending remittances through formal channels will not only safeguard hard-earned money but also benefit the entire Nepalese economy.”

He urged Nepali workers in Qatar to prioritize official banking channels for remittances.

Gyanendra Prasad Dhungana, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Nabil Bank, highlighted the crucial role of Nepali migrant workers in the economic development of both Nepal and Qatar.

Dhungana stated that the program aimed to raise awareness about digital banking services, enabling Nepali workers to open bank accounts online using their Qatari mobile numbers, apply for loans, and invest in SIPs, mutual funds, and the stock market through the bank’s associated companies.