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In the early hours of 12 July 2024, two buses tragically plunged into the Trishuli River at Simaltal, Chitwan, claiming several lives and testing Nepal’s disaster response capacity. Within hours, 52 trained members of Nepal's Armed Police Force (APF), along with more than 200 personnel deployed in rescue operations, arrived at the scene and started their work. However, in a move that has become all too familiar, the government sought international assistance, which led to the deployment of 12 personnel equipped with advanced technology like sonar systems and magnets—tools that Nepal lacked—for search operations.

The result? The APF divers, operating with limited equipment, outperformed the foreign team in terms of efficiency. The incident exposed the fact that Nepal's disaster response often relies on foreign assistance, even when capable local teams exist. This tendency raises critical questions about the country's dependency mindset and its failure to empower its own disaster management infrastructure. Despite facing frequent natural disasters—earthquakes, floods, landslides, and more—the country has yet to establish a comprehensive, well-resourced, and functional system, not just a lame institution, for disaster preparedness and response. 

International assistance can be a lifeline in moments of crisis, but relying all the time on it as the primary solution exposes Nepal's willingness and ability to protect its citizens. 

What the Simaltal incident teaches us

The Simaltal incident is a reminder of the need to shift our focus from reactive measures to proactive disaster management. If we are to quickly scan the current DRR regime in Nepal, at least five key actions can be said to be crucial to correcting our past mistakes and building a resilient DRRM system.

Firstly, let’s not just enjoy doing one after another workshops for response planning in star hotels. Instead, the Ministry of Home Affairs must invest in modern equipment and technology disaster risk reduction measures. The Study says if we invest 1 USD in preparedness, we could save 7 USD in post-disaster management. 

The APF divers’ performance highlighted their courage and commitment, but it also exposed the limitations of working without advanced equipment. The tools brought by the foreign rescue divers--such as sonar systems for underwater detection--are not luxuries but necessities for modern disaster response. Nepal must invest in acquiring and maintaining such equipment, along with training personnel in their use. 

Second, the Ministry will be at ease if it invests in empowering and equipping national forces and local governments. Nepal has competent agencies like the APF and Nepal Army, yet their potential is undermined by a lack of resources. We must provide these agencies with continuous training, better infrastructure, and the authority to act autonomously in times of disaster. Local governments, too, need to be integrated into the national disaster preparedness framework, enabling them to take the lead in disaster-prone areas.

Third, given the advancement in technology, we must invest to fully develop a robust multi-hazards early warning system. Let me bring up a case. The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology had projected above-normal rainfall for this year. By mid-monsoon, 70 percent of the rainfall had already occurred and by early August an average of 90 percent rainfall had been recorded. Early warnings are even more critical, where every second matters for saving lives and properties. 

On July 6, several villages in Bagmati and Lumbi were flooded due to heavy rainfall a day before (on July 5) and Kanchanpur of Sudurpaschim recorded 624 mm of rainfall in 24 hours which is extremely heavy rainfall.  The news media had published warning news including expert interviews two days in advance citing weather forecasts, but the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA) failed to act promptly. All it did was upload an awareness song on its website only by late afternoon on July 6. 

The lack of an effective early warning system has exacerbated the impact of disasters in several such cases, including during the Bhotekoshi floods in 2016 and the recent Thame floods in Solukhumbu. Nepal needs a comprehensive, tech-enabled early warning system that can provide real-time data on natural hazards such as floods and landslides. One that is now run by the Department of Hydrology and Metrology (DHM) requires a massive upgrade in its current EWS

Fourth, it is time we prioritize Disaster-Resilient Infrastructure given the losses we have already faced with the multi-million-dollar Melamchi project constructed on ADB loan. Whether it's flood barriers, earthquake-resistant buildings, or safe roadways in landslide-prone areas, investments in infrastructure can dramatically reduce both the human and economic toll of disasters. Nepal’s geography is challenging, but modern engineering can mitigate these risks if prioritized. A  flood in the Koshi basin, for example, could wipe away investment made in the Hydropower sector (some already in construction, some in pipeline) worth over US 10bn. Climate-proofing this investment makes a business case.

Finally, Nepal needs to roll up its sleeves and work hard to institutionalize preparedness and response through policy and governance. Not much progress has been made in this sector despite the substantive support from international partners. 

The unfortunate reality is that the Ministry has no information on the impact of the 36 projects implemented in areas like DRR and urban resilience with donor's money. This reflects a potential misuse of donor funds.

While Nepal has made progress in policy-making, including setting up of NDRRMA, the implementation often falls short. It lacks full authority like the one enjoyed by India’s National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA). This also means creating a clear chain of command during emergencies. During the Simaltal tragedy, the state was in a doldrum as the parties were busy flexing muscles to form a new government. A strong NDRRMA would have come into action irrespective of any change in the political equation in Kathmandu. 

 All these failed disaster responses that we witness every monsoon, therefore, should not be remembered only for its loss of life but as a wake-up call. If Nepal fails to learn from these repeated incidents, we risk falling into the same trap of reactionary measures that only exacerbate the loss and damage.

May 

A touch reaches the heart 

And sing a life of love

Admonishing the heartbeat

Of joy 

And melody 

Along a deserted road 

Of the woods

A slow and calm 

Breeze drifts

Our feet 

Stepping with a rhythm 

On the dried leaves 

In sweet way

Some unseen birds chirps

And we walk 

With a deep silence 

Listening to our soul 

Filled with immense pleasure

And some strange feeling 

If tickle in the heart

We are lost somewhere 

In the peaceful world 

Of our dreams - 

We see everything beautiful

And there is no any anguish 

Except the anguish of love 

Which we embrace 

In our touch 

And we feel our warmth,

And flow of blood

And we exist in 

Each other 

And it’s all the world-

Along the woods 

We walk together 

With arms tied 

And lost in our presence 

Of the music 

Of our hearts

Manish Lamichhane

Nepal Law Campus

“Time heals all wounds.” This saying rang hollow to Saurya, who couldn’t get over the experience that left him dejected. Living in a world dominated by 21st-century technology, he often wondered why rural areas in Nepal still lagged behind, particularly in the health sector. Just a month ago, he lost a close friend because the local hospital lacked the necessary provisions and equipment to save his life.

Hospitals are meant to be lifelines, yet in many parts of Nepal, people struggle to access even basic healthcare. Saurya recalls Article 35 of Nepal’s Constitution, promulgated in 2015, which guarantees that no one shall be deprived of emergency health services and that everyone has the right to equal access to healthcare. Despite knowing these rights, he now found himself in despair. The law seemed distant and irrelevant in the face of his loss, leaving him heartbroken and disillusioned.

This tragedy is not just Saurya’s story—it reflects the broader struggles of countless people in Nepal’s rural areas. Many are still deprived of basic healthcare services, from pediatric care to essential diagnostic tools. Hospitals in these regions often lack the most basic equipment to treat diseases and care for patients, leading to tragic outcomes. The situation is especially dire in Nepal’s largest province, Karnali, where many hospitals suffer from chronic shortages of critical medicines and skilled personnel.

A 2023 report from the Global Press Journal highlights that “few people are willing to work in Nepal’s largest state,” citing poor infrastructure as a key reason. Patients often have to travel more than 100 kilometers to receive treatment. The provincial Ministry of Social Development reports that Karnali has the fewest health institutions in the country, with just 15 hospitals spread across its 10 districts. Even these facilities are plagued by resource shortages, causing significant hardships for those in need of care. Since 2022, for example, the District Hospital in Mugu has been forced to refer patients elsewhere for surgeries due to a lack of specialist doctors. This grim reality underscores the severe challenges ordinary people face due to inadequate healthcare services.

In response, the government allocated Rs 86.24b to the Ministry of Health and Population for the fiscal year 2024/25. This budget could play a pivotal role in building new hospitals and recruiting qualified doctors, nurses, and support staff, especially in underserved areas like Karnali. In addition to hospital upgrades, infrastructure development in rural areas is crucial. Financial support is also needed to make healthcare more affordable for low-income populations.

The saying ‘Health is wealth’ reminds us that nothing is more valuable than our health. A healthy body and mind are the foundation for personal and societal growth. As our society progresses, it is essential that hospitals across the country are equipped to serve all citizens, regardless of location. The government must ensure that basic facilities, adequate healthcare personnel, and sufficient hospitals are available to meet the needs of the population.

Nepal’s healthcare system faces significant challenges, especially in regions like Karnali. Despite constitutional guarantees, many citizens struggle to access even the most basic medical services. The government’s allocated budget must be used effectively to ensure equitable healthcare for all, as addressing these issues is essential for the well-being and future growth of the nation.

Prakriti Thapa

BA IInd Year,

St Xavier’s College, Maitighar

The film industry worldwide is undergoing a significant transformation, and Nepal is no exception. With the advent of artificial intelligence (AI), the landscape of filmmaking is evolving rapidly, offering new opportunities and challenges. AI’s integration into the Nepali film industry is not just a trend but a revolution that promises to redefine how films are made, distributed, and consumed.

Pre-production: Enhancing creativity and efficiency

In the pre-production phase, AI tools are proving to be invaluable. Scriptwriting, for instance, can benefit immensely from AI algorithms that analyze successful scripts and suggest improvements. AI can help writers develop more engaging plots, create realistic dialogues, and even predict the potential success of a script based on various parameters. This not only saves time but also enhances the creative process by providing writers with new perspectives and ideas.

Moreover, AI can assist in casting by analyzing actors’ past performances and predicting their suitability for specific roles. This data-driven approach ensures that the right talent is chosen, which can significantly impact the film’s success. For directors and producers in Nepal, this means making more informed decisions that align with both artistic vision and market demands.

Production: Streamlining processes and reducing costs

During the production phase, AI technologies can streamline various processes, making filmmaking more efficient and cost-effective. AI-powered cameras and drones can capture high-quality footage with precision, reducing the need for multiple takes and extensive reshoots. These technologies can also handle complex shots that would be challenging or dangerous for human operators.

In addition, AI can assist in managing schedules, budgets, and logistics. By analyzing data from previous projects, AI can predict potential delays and suggest ways to mitigate them. This proactive approach helps keep productions on track and within budget, which is particularly beneficial for the Nepali film industry, where resources are often limited.

Post-production: Revolutionizing editing and visual effects

Post-production is where AI’s impact is most profound. AI-driven editing software can automate many tedious tasks, such as sorting through hours of footage, identifying the best takes, and assembling rough cuts. This allows editors to focus on the creative aspects of their work, such as refining the narrative and enhancing the emotional impact of scenes.

AI is also revolutionizing visual effects (VFX). Advanced algorithms can generate realistic CGI, perform complex compositing, and even create entire scenes from scratch. This opens up new possibilities for filmmakers in Nepal, enabling them to produce high-quality visual effects without the need for expensive equipment or large teams.

Distribution: Targeting audiences and maximizing reach 

AI’s role extends beyond production into distribution and marketing. AI algorithms can analyze audience preferences and viewing habits to predict which films will resonate with different demographics. This information can be used to tailor marketing campaigns, ensuring that promotional efforts reach the right audience.

For the Nepali film industry, this means more effective use of limited marketing budgets. By targeting specific segments of the population, filmmakers can maximize their reach and increase the chances of their films being successful. AI can also assist in optimizing release schedules, choosing the best platforms for distribution, and even setting ticket prices based on demand predictions.

Challenges and ethical considerations

While AI offers numerous benefits, its integration into the film industry also raises several challenges and ethical considerations. One major concern is the potential loss of jobs as AI automates tasks traditionally performed by humans. This is a significant issue in Nepal, where the film industry provides employment to many people.

To address this, it is essential to focus on reskilling and upskilling the workforce. By providing training in AI and related technologies, the industry can ensure that workers are equipped to take on new roles and responsibilities. Additionally, there should be a balance between automation and human creativity, ensuring that AI enhances rather than replaces human input.

Another ethical consideration is the potential for bias in AI algorithms. If the data used to train AI systems is biased, it can lead to unfair and discriminatory outcomes. This is particularly relevant in casting and scriptwriting, where biased algorithms could perpetuate stereotypes and limit diversity. It is crucial to develop and implement AI systems that are transparent, fair, and inclusive.

Future of AI in Nepali film industry 

The future of AI in the Nepali film industry looks promising. As technology continues to advance, AI will become even more integrated into all aspects of filmmaking. This will lead to more efficient production processes, higher-quality films, and greater opportunities for creative expression.

For filmmakers in Nepal, embracing AI is not just about staying current with global trends but also about leveraging technology to overcome local challenges. By adopting AI, the Nepalese film industry can enhance its competitiveness, reach a wider audience, and tell more compelling stories.

In conclusion, AI is set to play a pivotal role in the future of the Nepalese film industry. Its ability to enhance creativity, streamline production, and optimize distribution makes it an invaluable tool for filmmakers. However, it is essential to address the challenges and ethical considerations associated with AI to ensure that its integration benefits everyone involved. With the right approach, AI can help the Nepali film industry achieve new heights and continue to thrive in the digital age.