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Nepal is one of the most climate-vulnerable countries in the world, despite contributing only 0.027 percent to global carbon emissions. Its geographic location in the Himalayan region makes it particularly susceptible to the impacts of global warming. Rising temperatures have accelerated the melting of glaciers that have existed for centuries, leading to floods, landslides, and erratic rainfall patterns. These environmental changes are taking a heavy toll on Nepal’s agriculture, water resources, forests, biodiversity, and, most importantly, the lives and livelihoods of its people. Infrastructure is also under significant strain, with roads, bridges, and hydropower plants suffering recurring damage from natural disasters. The costs of these damages are mounting year after year, leaving Nepal to grapple with the dual challenges of economic development and environmental sustainability.

The effects of climate change are no longer distant threats but pressing realities. In October, the country witnessed devastating floods and landslides, exacerbated by increasingly unpredictable monsoon rains. These events left communities in chaos, further highlighting Nepal’s vulnerability to climate-induced disasters. UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ visit to Nepal last year brought international attention to this crisis. During his trip to Syangboche in Solukhumbu, he observed the retreat of Himalayan glaciers firsthand and noted that Nepal has lost nearly one-third of its glaciers over the past 30 years. His observations underscored the urgent need to address the cascading effects of glacial retreat on local communities and downstream ecosystems, which rely heavily on Himalayan water sources.

Industrial pollution from neighboring countries, particularly India and China, is aggravating the crisis. Pollutants such as carbon dioxide and black carbon are being deposited on Nepal’s snowcaps, reducing their ability to reflect sunlight and accelerating their melt rate. These emissions, coupled with Nepal’s own environmental challenges, are creating a dire situation in which the country’s resources and resilience are being stretched to their limits. Tourism, especially mountaineering, has also played a role in worsening the environmental situation. While tourism is a cornerstone of Nepal’s economy, unregulated activities on mountains and trekking routes are contributing to pollution and degrading fragile ecosystems. If left unchecked, these practices will further exacerbate the environmental challenges posed by global warming.

There are, however, promising efforts to address these challenges. One notable example is the decision to keep Mount Machapuchare closed to climbers. This sacred peak has been preserved due to its cultural significance and the concerns raised by religious and environmental advocates. This decision has sparked broader discussions about whether other peaks should also be restricted to protect the integrity of the Himalayan ecosystem. Balancing conservation and development is a complex issue for Nepal, where tourism is a vital economic driver. However, the long-term health of the environment must take precedence to ensure that the natural beauty and resources that sustain the tourism industry are not irreparably damaged.

Nepal has immense potential to combat climate change through the use of its abundant natural resources. The glacial meltwater flowing down the Himalayas feeds over 6,000 rivers, streams, and lakes, which are critical for hydropower generation. Expanding hydropower production offers an opportunity to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and decrease greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, Nepal has the potential to explore green hydrogen as a sustainable energy solution, using clean water and renewable electricity. Developing these resources can position Nepal as a leader in clean energy production while simultaneously addressing its domestic energy needs.

However, realizing this potential is not without challenges. Despite hosting the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) for over five decades, Nepal has yet to see tangible benefits from its extensive research. Translating scientific insights into actionable strategies for climate adaptation and mitigation has been slow. Furthermore, cooperation with neighboring countries like India and China is crucial. For instance, large hydropower projects in the upper catchment areas of Nepal could have catastrophic consequences for millions of people in downstream regions if not carefully managed. Conducting impartial environmental impact assessments and fostering regional collaboration are essential steps in mitigating cross-border risks and ensuring sustainable development.

Nepal’s government and private sector are working together to chart a path toward a low-carbon future. The country has set an ambitious target of generating 15,000 MW of clean energy by 2030, encompassing micro-hydropower, solar, wind, and bioenergy. Achieving this goal will require significant investment, technological expertise, and policy support. The private sector will play a critical role in this transition, but international financial assistance and partnerships will be equally important. As a developing nation with limited resources, Nepal cannot achieve these targets alone. Global support is vital, not only to finance clean energy projects but also to strengthen Nepal’s capacity to withstand climate impacts.

Advocating for climate justice on the international stage is another key priority. Nepal must continue to emphasize the disproportionate burden that vulnerable countries bear due to the emissions of developed nations. Platforms like COP29 provide opportunities for Nepal to amplify its voice and push for greater financial and technological support. Developed nations must take responsibility for their historical emissions and assist countries like Nepal in building climate resilience. Additionally, scientific research and data must be leveraged effectively to highlight Nepal’s unique vulnerabilities and secure international aid for adaptation and mitigation efforts.

The road to a carbon-neutral future in Nepal is not easy, but it is achievable. By focusing on clean energy production, sustainable development, and environmental conservation, Nepal can set an example for other countries facing similar challenges. Achieving carbon neutrality by 2045 will require collective action from the government, private sector, civil society, and the international community. It will also demand a shift in mindset, recognizing that the preservation of natural resources is not just an environmental imperative but a foundation for long-term prosperity

Nepal’s journey toward sustainability offers a vision of hope and resilience in the face of adversity. Despite its small contribution to global emissions, the country is committed to playing a leading role in combating climate change. By prioritizing clean energy, advocating for climate justice, and fostering regional collaboration, Nepal can transform its vulnerabilities into opportunities. The stakes are high, not just for Nepal but for the global fight against climate change. Only by working together can we build a sustainable future for generations to come.

Minister for Forest and Environment Ain Bahadur Shahi has said that Nepal will present the Karnali Declaration on climate justice with high imporatnce at COP 29 taking place in Baku, Azerbaijan, next month.

During a pre-COP29 orientation organized by the Climate Change Management Division at Chandragiri, the minister assured participants of Nepal's effective participation in COP29. The three-day event began on Wednesday.

He said Nepal will participate in the forum with sufficient preparations and give its effective presence. 

The minister said that the session on Climate Finance scheduled to be held during the Conference is crucial for Nepal when it is challenging for developing countries like Nepal to address the climate change crisis without adequate financial support.

The workshop on climate change as preparation for COP29 was collaboratively organized by the Ministry and an organization Sath Sathai on October 19-20 in Karnali. 

The gathering participated by several climate experts, and people's representatives from all districts in the Karnali Province concluded by issuing the five-point Karnali Declaration. The minister said the Declaration will be significant for COP 29.

 "We should focus on limiting the temperature rise at 1.5 degrees," the minister said, adding that the world should prioritize the need to promote clean and durable energy resources and reduce carbon emissions to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.

During the Karnali workshop, Karnali's local representatives said agricultural loss, depletion of water resources, and the reduction in snowfall are among the perceived consequences of climate change lately seen in Karnali, according to the minister.

Similarly, Minister of State for Forest and Environment Rupa BK stressed that Nepal should assertively voice its concerns at the conference, advocating for developed nations to provide financial and technical support to help developing countries implement climate-friendly initiatives.

The 11th International Snow Leopard Day is being observed today to increase public awareness for safeguarding snow leopards.

The snow leopard which is only found in 12 countries of the globe is considered an indicator of fair mountainous ecology.

The theme of the day for the year 2024 is 'Safeguarding Snow Leopard Habitats for Future Generations'. This theme emphasizes the critical importance of protecting the natural habitats of snow leopards to ensure their survival and the health of mountain ecosystems.

The Ministry of Forest and Environment is marking the day by organizing several programs today. The Ministry's Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation is releasing the snow leopard survey results of Kanchenjunga Conservation areas.

Director General of the Department, Ram Chandra Kandel informed that the snow leopard study report of Dolpa National Park will be made public and the photo frame of the wild yak taken inside Dolpa National Park will be unveiled.

He said climate change has affected the high mountainous regions more and its impact has reduced the habitat of snow leopards. He further said the habitat loss has led to a decrease in its food species.

"Nearly 60 percent of the snow leopard habitat is outside the park and such habitats are being fragmented", he shared, adding, "Additionally, there are other challenges such as entrapping snow leopard, adding poison to the diet, geographical difficulties, lack of proper technology, human resource and budget crunch for effective monitoring".

Pointing out the need for cooperation and coordination among the three levels of government for the conservation of snow leopard, DG Kandel said that the Department has been conducting surveys to spread awareness among the local community, monitor it and know about its condition, challenges and solutions.

"As a result, there has been a slight decrease in smuggling," he said. The Department has been helping to build a safe shed to protect the sheep, goats and sparrows of the locals from snow leopards.

Snow leopards are usually found at an altitude of 540 to 5,000 meters above sea level. Snow leopards have been listed by the IUCN as a global risk on the Red List.

Snow leopards are estimated to be between 300 and 500 snow leopards, an important part of the health ecosystem in the high mountainous region.

It is estimated that there are about 300 to 500 snow leopards in Nepal and about 4,000 to 6,500 in the world.

Climatologists have said that a variation has occurred on the monsoon system also due to climate change from global warming. They reasoned that the monsoon this year withdrew from the country 10 days later compared to the previous years.

Climatologist Manjit Dhakal considers the delayed withdrawal of the monsoon as an alteration in the monsoon pattern. According to him, this trend can be considered as an impact of climate change.

Similarly, the relentless rain on September 27 and 28, he assessed, is also due to the effect of climate change. However, climatologist Dhakal has pointed out the need of carrying out research on such climate-related hazards.

He suggested implementation of the concept of climate-friendly development for sustainable development. "It has become inevitable to give priority to climate adaptation programs," he said, quoting the report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change.

Meteorologist Bishnu Ghimire also indicated the need of research to reach a conclusion whether or not the delayed withdrawal of the monsoon system is due to the effects of climate change. His understanding is also that there is an alteration in the monsoon pattern due to the climate change impact.

KP Sharma Oli

I start by sharing how honored I feel to address John F Kennedy Jr. Forum at Harvard today. I extend my deepest appreciation to the President of the University, for the generous invitation and excellent arrangements for this event. I feel singularly privileged to stand in this enormous temple of knowledge and wisdom. With all modesty, I stand here to share Nepal’s perspective on transitional justice and climate justice.

First, let me delve into the issue of transitional justice in Nepal.  

As you may know, our country suffered a decade-long armed violence from 1996 to 2006 which resulted in around 17,000 deaths of Nepali people. But we have since come a long way from it, which started with the signing of a Comprehensive Peace Accord between the rebels and the government in 2006. 

Following the Accord, we first held an election to the constituent assembly in 2008 to write a new constitution. However, the disagreements in the assembly resulted in its dissolution without adopting a new constitution. Even then, the first constituent assembly undertook a consequential action--turning Nepal from an autocratic kingdom to a democratic republic by abolishing 240 years long monarchy. The country has also been transformed from unitary to federal state.

The second constituent assembly, elected in 2013, promulgated a new constitution in 2015, solidifying previous gains made in the field of restructuring and democratizing the state. The constitution marks the culmination of our nation’s struggles for democracy that started in the 1950s.  The constitution guarantees a competitive multiparty democratic system of governance, civil liberties, fundamental rights, human rights, full freedom of the press and concept of the rule of law with a view to building an inclusive and prosperous nation. 

In a nutshell, our constitution comprehensively addresses the underlying drivers and catalysts of conflict through substantial social, political and economic reforms. This is a brief scenario of Nepal’s peace process and political transformation. Transitional justice is an integral part of our peace process.

Although transitional justice has remained on the backburner for several years, it was not forgotten. An attempt has been made to resolve this protracted issue of transitional justice. Back in 2015, we established two transitional justice mechanisms, namely, Truth and Reconciliation Commission, and Commission on Enforced Disappeared Persons. The Truth and Reconciliation Commission alone collected nearly 67 thousand complaints from all over the country and even settled some of them. 

But due to the frequent changes in the government, the issue of transitional justice was delayed for some 18 years after signing of the peace Accord. Now, my government has been formed in a coalition of major two parties of Nepali politics not only to give stability but also to better deliver to Nepali people. These two political parties have a long history of leading the people for their freedom and prosperity. 

In this context, I am happy to share that immediately after the formation of my government, the Transitional Justice bill was passed by the parliament with near consensus. This time, my government is determined to conclude the issue of transitional justice once and for all.

I want to assure you that the process of transitional justice will protect victims’ rights and interests, including legal remedies. It will involve seeking truth, providing reparation, and bringing perpetrators of serious crimes to justice. No blanket amnesty will be given. 

Nepal’s peace process is a nationally led and nationally owned unique process. Unique in the sense that all political parties from the left and right came together and concluded the ‘Peace Accord’. As we move to the last mile tasks of the peace process, we welcome support and encouragement from the international community including our partners in the process for effective implementation of the TJ Act.

We are determined to conclude TJ process to heal the wounds and scars of the conflict period and help the entire society move forward with a sense of reconciliation, peace and harmony. In fact, Nepal is inherently a non-violent, tolerant and peaceful society as it is the birthplace of Gautam Buddha, an apostle of peace.

Now, let me turn to the subject of climate justice.

Our Mother Earth is in the ‘Goldilocks zone’ in terms of Earth’s distance to the Sun.  As the right atmosphere had evolved in the subsequent period, life came to existence on earth. The making of this process took several billion years. Long story short, today, we descendants of ‘Homo sapiens’ rule the surface of the planet earth.

What we know now is that the last two hundred years’ anthropogenic activities have been rendering irreparable damage to the natural ecosystem and atmosphere of our mother earth thereby leading to the destruction of billions of years of evolution in no time.  Axiomatically, it will invite the extinction of life on earth.

Now, the whole world is suffering. But the least developed countries are suffering the most as they do not have resources and technologies to manage adverse impacts of climate change. Moreover, while we have just started to make initial steps for economic development, the problem of global warming and climate change has come our way with increased incidence of disasters. It came to us from the outside world, far from our borders. The cumulative impact of hundreds of years of burning of fossil fuels have largely created these catastrophic problems. 

This is a gross injustice meted out by the advanced industrialized economies with their centuries of exploitation of nature and emissions of greenhouse gas that are largely responsible for the global ecological harms, endangering our very existence. Against this fact, it is entirely rational to call for climate justice. And for us, climate justice is plain and simple: those who pollute the environment have to pay proportionately. Developed countries and major economies must take proportionate responsibility to support developing nations for climate actions, through adequate resources and technology transfer. The major emitters must lead from the front in healing and rehabilitating Mother Nature, reducing the reliance on fossil fuels. The establishment of a “Loss and Damage” fund in the recent UN Climate Change conference was a positive step in recognizing the principle of climate justice, whereby those most responsible for emissions should cover the damages.

If we truly believe in democracy and justice at a global level, then wealthy nations who are responsible for climate damage must compensate for the loss and damage of essential infrastructures and livelihoods of people in vulnerable countries.

The stakes are nothing less than our collective existence. The world cannot continue with a wrong model of carbon intensive development. We must take proportionate actions to limit global warming and climate change, preserve nature, transition to greener economies and embrace a sustainable path forward. We are in the same boat. If we don’t work together to keep it afloat, we will sink together. 

My country Nepal has set an ambitious goal of reaching net zero by 2045, five years ahead of the global target.

Despite being one of the lowest emitters of greenhouse gasses, Nepal is one of the most climate vulnerable countries. We have become a barometer of climate change.

Nepal has hugely been contributing to the health of our planet through its forests, mountains and rivers. Yet, despite these efforts, we continue to bear the brunt of climate change, created largely by the actions of industrialized nations.

Our mountains play a crucial role in regulating the climate and ecosystem of oceans and mountains, with their snow-fed rivers flowing down to the oceans. Nepal’s Himalayas, as a natural climate stabilizer, help maintain a cooling system in a region situated in the hottest zone of the planet between the tropics of Cancer and Capricorn.

But our Himalayas are losing their ice at an alarming rate endangering the lives and livelihood of billions of people based on the river system originated from the Himalayas. 

Neither the heat of the hottest regions nor the ice of the cold poles caused this destruction. It is humanity that has harmed nature, and in turn, nature is contributing to the climate crisis. Therefore, it is our responsibility to protect nature, and in doing so, we must preserve our mountains and forests.

I conclude by stating the obvious: the climate crisis is an unprecedented crisis that engulfs the entire planet. Therefore, it requires commitments, solidarity and collective action on an unprecedented scale.

Thank you for your attention.

Remarks by the Prime Minister Oli in John F Kennedy Jr Forum at Harvard University

Minister for Foreign Affairs Arzu Rana Deuba has urged the G20 member countries to increase financial support for the Least Developed Countries (LDCs) to address the damaging impacts of climate change.

Reflecting on the problems faced by LDCs due to climate change, Minister Rana said, "These countries have suffered from multi-faceted crises, including the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change and geopolitical tensions. As a result, these countries have been pushed further into extreme poverty in the last two decades."

The Minister for Foreign Affairs was addressing the G20 Foreign Affairs Ministers Meeting in New York on Wednesday on the sidelines of the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly.

Minister Rana delivered these remarks on behalf of the Group of Least-Developed Countries, of which Nepal is the current chair.

The minister urged the G20 to take a leading role in promoting inclusive growth, accelerating the 2030 Agenda, enhancing global health security, leading climate action, driving digital transformation, bridging digital divides, fostering multilateral cooperation, and addressing the challenges the world is facing.

She also lauded Brazil's initiatives in hosting this meeting as the chair of the G20 with a focus on social inclusion, poverty alleviation and sustainable development while welcoming its proposal to launch a Global Alliance against Hunger and Poverty.

Minister Rana urged the establishment of a formal mechanism for LDC representation in G20 meetings and working groups, including regular invitations for the LDC Chair to G20 Summits, which she said provides a vital platform for allowing the perspectives of LDCs to shape G20 deliberations and outcomes.

Additionally, she requested the establishment of a G20-led fund to support climate adaptation and resilience-building in LDCs, with a focus on grant-based financing and capacity building for project development and implementation.

She also called on G20 members to provide duty-free and quota-free market access for all LDC products, which she believed would help LDCs better integrate into global value chains and boost export revenues. She stressed the urgent need for G20 countries to recognize that LDCs have been severely hit by the recent increase in extreme poverty, calling for collective efforts to support these countries.

Mamkoila Sarki from Jumla shares the lifelong struggle of accessing clean drinking water. She recalls a time when melting snow was a daily routine for drinking water. Decades ago, crops thrived with minimal spoilage, but now recurrent landslides and unfavorable climatic conditions frequently destroy seeds and paddy, she says.

Sadhana Tharu from Nepalgunj observes rising temperatures over the years. Whereas rainfall used to arrive between mid-May and mid-June, it now occurs between mid-July and mid-August, often leading to flooding between September and October.

Dhanjit Budha from Jumla explains that with many men and educated women working abroad, the remaining women, who rely heavily on agriculture, struggle to support their families. Climate change has reduced agricultural productivity, making survival increasingly difficult.

In the documentary Bahav, produced by Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung last year, the impact of climate change on water resources is highlighted.

Women in remote districts like Bardiya and Jumla are adapting to climate variability in their villages. According to the World Bank’s Country, Climate, and Development Report, Nepal’s temperature is projected to rise by 0.9°C between 2016 and 2045, further increasing the country's climate risks.

This article will explore how documentaries and short films have brought climate change issues in Nepal to the forefront. It will examine the presentation of climate challenges in various contexts, and whether commercial cinema has adequately addressed these critical issues.

Emerging issues

A documentary produced by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) illustrates how poverty and environmental changes are driving migration. Intense monsoons lead to floods in the Tarai and landslides in the hills, while droughts damage crops, exacerbating food insecurity. For example, in Arghakhanchi district alone, more than 50 percent of households have family members migrating for work. 

Respondents in the documentary noted that climate change has harmed crop yields, livestock, and livelihoods. However, FAO demonstrates that intervention is possible through a problem-solving approach, providing support to affected communities, especially women, who bear the brunt of climate change.

In The Last Yak Herder of Dhe, visual anthropologist Fidel Devkota showcases the challenges faced by Kungshang Rinzin, the only remaining yak herder in Upper Mustang’s climate-vulnerable region. The documentary, featured by WWF Nepal, reveals the population decline in Dhe village due to shrinking grasslands and water shortages.

A documentary by NDI Nepal, supported by USAID, focuses on climate change and governance in Nepal. Stakeholders warn that 21 glacial lakes—sources of the Koshi, Gandaki, and Karnali rivers—are on the verge of bursting due to global warming. This could lead to massive displacement and poverty. Despite many policies, implementation remains a challenge. 

Dr Punya Prasad Regmi, Vice-chancellor of Agriculture and Forestry University, stresses the need for collaboration between the Ministries of Agriculture, Energy, and Forestry to address climate-related policy gaps.

The World Bank report also forecasts drier winters and wetter monsoon summers in Nepal, with river flooding potentially affecting 350,000 people by 2030. Between 2012 and 2019, Nepal’s carbon emissions rose by 26.9 percent, with agriculture contributing 54 percent and energy 28 percent.

Climate storytelling in film festivals

The 19th edition of the Kathmandu International Mountain Film Festival (KIMFF) in December 2021 focused on climate change under the theme “Karma.” The festival screened 40 films from 28 countries. Festival chair Basant Thapa emphasized the deep connection between humans and nature, calling for urgent action to heal the planet.

Notable films included The Icefall Doctor (2021), which portrays the life of Angnima Sherpa, who managed the Khumbu Icefall on Everest amidst environmental and personal challenges, and Bally Peak Outlook 2020 Expedition (2020), documenting a 47-day cleanup campaign led by environmental activist Dawa Steven Sherpa. The campaign, conducted during lockdown, removed 2.2 tons of waste from three mountains.

Other films, like God’s Buffalo (2021) and When Glaciers Go (2021), depict the personal and environmental struggles of rural communities affected by climate change, such as forced migration due to water shortages in Mustang.

KIMFF also organized a short film competition on the theme of “Green Growth—Green Recovery,” receiving 10 films on climate change and environmental issues. A decade earlier, the British Council Nepal and DFID launched the UK-Nepal Climate Change Short Film Competition, with winning entries screened at KIMFF.

While festivals like KIMFF promote climate storytelling, their reach is limited to Kathmandu, and the remote areas most affected by climate change remain largely unaware of these efforts.

Absence of climate stories in commercial cinema

Medical anthropologist and filmmaker Sachin Ghimire argues that Nepali cinema has largely neglected climate-related stories. He believes commercial filmmakers have not explored this issue, although doing so could attract larger audiences and raise awareness.

Ghimire criticizes Nepal’s political system for its failure to prioritize climate issues, blaming a lack of political vision and leadership. Despite some efforts by NGOs and INGOs, climate storytelling in Nepal is often driven by funding availability rather than genuine concern.

Senior movie journalist Samipya Timalsena notes that Nepali cinema tends to focus on entertainment, with few films exploring complex issues like climate change. He believes that creating issue-based movies with compelling protagonists and antagonists is a challenge.

Another documentary filmmaker, speaking anonymously, agrees that bringing such topics to mainstream cinema is difficult without the support of key stakeholders. However, he commends the work of visual anthropologists and documentary makers who continue to address these critical issues.

Climate change activist Arnab Chaudhary advocates for more indigenous storytelling in climate narratives, emphasizing that indigenous communities are disproportionately affected by climate change. He argues that their stories should be told by themselves to authentically reflect their experiences, with non-indigenous allies providing support.

Way forward

Nepal faces many challenges as a developing country, but ignoring environmental issues will only lead to a more uncertain future. Despite contributing just 0.027 percent of global emissions, Nepal ranks fourth in climate vulnerability.

Efforts like Sagarmatha Sambad, a multi-stakeholder dialogue on climate issues initiated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, are commendable. The first summit, scheduled for April 2020, was postponed due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

As a signatory to the Paris Agreement, Nepal must continue raising climate concerns in international forums. Domestically, the government must prioritize helping climate-vulnerable communities, especially indigenous groups, through effective policy implementation.

Having grown up near the Mahabharat Range, I’ve seen firsthand how human activity and climate change have altered the landscape. The glaciers are melting, and the floods in the Tarai affect thousands. Living in Kathmandu for over a decade, I noticed this year was especially hot.

Storytelling has always been a powerful tool for understanding and sharing experiences, and it’s time for the entertainment industry to embrace climate stories. Raising awareness through compelling narratives can help create the momentum needed for policymakers to act on climate justice.

Restoring our connection with nature is crucial for a sustainable future. Why not start by reflecting on our relationship with the Earth?

Climate change is profoundly impacting remote areas in Nepal, especially in the fragile landscapes of the Tarai and Madhes regions. 

Nepal ranks 10th globally in climate vulnerability, and its diverse geography and climate make it critical to address climate change and several of its impacts affecting communities disproportionately based on their gender, ethnicity, poverty, disability, social inclusivity and exclusivity (GEDSI). Research indicates that women and people with disabilities are disproportionately affected by climate-induced disasters like floods, droughts, heatwaves, and erratic rainfall. 

For instance, in the Tarai-Madhes plains, increasing temperatures and humidity have led to a rise in snake and scorpion bites, disproportionately impacting those with disabilities. Additionally, declining water tables exacerbate water scarcity issues, affecting women more, as water management is often considered their responsibility. In addition, infrastructure such as water taps and public toilets is frequently not disability-friendly.

Climate change has also introduced new health risks. Diseases like dengue and plague, previously rare in Nepal, have become more common due to rising temperatures and humidity. The agricultural sector, vital for the Tarai and Madhes economies, is facing significant challenges due to altered weather patterns. Traditional farming, reliant on outdated infrastructure, is increasingly difficult due to droughts, heatwaves and erratic rainfall. This affects both micro and macro-economics, underscoring the need for urgent adaptation measures.

Housing in rural areas, particularly in the Tarai, is highly susceptible to fire hazards due to the use of combustible materials like timber and thatch. Increased forest fires and modern appliances contribute to rising fire risks. The government of Nepal's policy on disaster risk reduction highlights fire hazards as a significant threat, exacerbated by climate change.

People’s (with disabilities) safety depends on safe shelter and infrastructure regarding how disability-friendly they are. Depending on affordability, different housing models need to be proposed and demonstrated. Those who prefer concrete structures have to compulsorily follow the standard building codes as prescribed by the government agency. People with relatively slim resources could be advised to build houses with light materials such as iron sheet roofs, earthquake- and fire-resistant floors and wall materials. But one must make sure that such shelters are resistant to all kinds of disasters, including venomous fauna—snakes and scorpions. 

Despite growing awareness of climate change and disaster risks, many people, especially in rural areas, lack adequate knowledge and preparedness. The incorporation of disability-oriented disaster risk reduction (DiDRR) concepts in policies and the formation of local disaster management committees (DMCs) are critical. These committees should include representatives from security forces, district administrations, civil society and disability groups. Raising awareness on these committees is essential for effective disaster response and preparedness.

The GEDSI approach is critical in addressing climate change impacts because it ensures that adaptation and mitigation strategies are equitable and inclusive. Without integrating GEDSI principles, policies and interventions risk perpetuating existing inequalities and excluding the most vulnerable populations. By acknowledging and addressing the specific needs and challenges facing marginalized groups—women, people with disabilities, and marginalized ethnic and caste communities—adaptation measures become more effective and sustainable. This approach not only enhances the resilience of these groups but also promotes social justice and equity, ensuring that no one is left behind in the face of climate change.

To enhance resilience, it is vital to promote inclusive and disaster-resistant infrastructure. Housing models should consider affordability and safety, with concrete structures adhering to building codes and more affordable options using fire-resistant materials. Additionally, disability-friendly features are crucial for ensuring safe shelters.

Promoting climate-resilient agriculture through smart practices is also crucial. Training programs on climate-smart agriculture should address local conditions and challenges, enhancing food security and agricultural sustainability. Implementing these practices will help communities adapt to climate change while ensuring that all segments, including people with disabilities, benefit from improved agricultural productivity.

To summarize, addressing climate change in the Madhes and Tarai regions necessitates a multifaceted approach that includes disability-specific disaster risk reduction, inclusive infrastructure and climate-smart agricultural practices. Effective adaptation and mitigation strategies will enhance resilience and ensure that all community members, particularly the most vulnerable, can cope with the changing climate.

The author is an environment and climate change expert

Minister for Foreign Affairs Arzu Rana Deuba, who is on an official visit to India beginning August 18, has urged academicians from South Asia to explore collective issues of climate change and suggest ways for addressing them. 

During her meeting with South Asian University (SAU) President Professor KK Aggarwal in New Delhi today, the Minister urged this.

"The South Asia region shares numerous other issues as well. The University researchers and academicians are expected to research and identify them, facilitating to address them," she said.

In the meeting, University President Prof Aggarwal briefed the Minister about University affairs, proposing the Nepal government to establish the University's constituent college in Nepal.

The University established by the eight member nations from the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) is an international university and the foreign ministers from the SAARC countries remain as its ex-officio chancellors.

In New Delhi, the Minister had a courtesy meeting with India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi and a bilateral meeting with her Indian counterpart S Jaishankar.

Foreign Affairs Department Chief of Bharatiya Janata Party, Dr Vijay Chauthaiwale, also called on the Minister.  She will be returning home today itself.  

Bangladesh Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Saber Hossain Chowdhury, has expressed concern, saying Bangladesh's existence itself might be imperiled with the melting of snow in the Nepal Himalayas due to climate change.

Addressing the 'Global Dialogue on Mountain, People and Climate' kicked off in Kathmandu from today to draw global attention to the impact of climate change in the Himalayas, he said the climate change has impacted more the Himalayas, leading to rapid snow melting, which could produce problems like flooding and others in Bangladesh.

The Bangladeshi minister called attention of the participants, expressing concern that the very existence of the downstream and coastal regions is at risk due to the melting of snow in the Himalayas, if timely steps and due alertness are not adopted for mitigating the climate change impact.

He stressed on paying attention to minimizing the climate change impact and adaptation for securing climate resilience.

"The developed countries emit 81 percent of the total global carbon emission. Developing countries like Nepal and Bangladesh are facing problems due to this. The developed countries have not implemented their commitments made at various climate conferences regarding lowering the carbon emission. Now, they should be prodded," he added.

Stating that the government alone cannot alleviate poverty and prevent the climate change impacts, Minister Hossain stressed on the need of managing the budget required for implementing the climate change adaptation programs. "Political will is needed to address the problems created by the adverse impact of climate change," he reiterated.

Experts from 25 countries are participating in the Global Dialogue. More than 200 persons representing the mountainous and small island nations including Nepal, the international community, development partners, INGOs, the private sector and the civil society are attending the program.

The experts will deliberate on topics such as making coordination, prioritizing and strengthening climate resilient activities based on mountain ecosystem.

Minister for Forest and Environment, Nawal Kishore Sah Sudi, said that climate incidents are unpredictable and unprecedentedly increasing every year.

In his remarks during the opening session of Mountains, People, and Climate today, he said, "Climate change is a global and cross-cutting issue, we all know that we all are disproportionately impacted across the countries. Both mountains and island countries and their people are facing multiple crises of temperature rise, erratic rainfall, drought and desertification, landslides, floods, inundation, forest fires, glacier melting, and sea rise levels."

He said that gathering and adversities that impact climate change in the mountainous countries are higher than elsewhere in the world, appealing to all mountainous and developed countries to allocate additional financial resources for adaptation with open hearts and minds so that collective measures could be taken to address the climate crisis.

Urging the international communities and parties to discuss this matter in the upcoming expert dialogue on mountains and climate change on June 5 in Germany and take additional decisions on mountains and amplify the finance and adaptation targets for the sake of mountain communities for their lives and livelihoods, he requested SBSTA chair Harry too, to take a message on why and how mountainous issues are important in the climate negotiation process.

"Harry, SBSTA chair, I am looking for your crucial role as an ambassador of mountainous countries to give a sense of urgency to the international community to take appropriate actions on mountains and their people in the upcoming COP2029 and beyond," he mentioned.

He also expected continued collaboration and positive outcomes that will surely emerge from our collective efforts in the days to come.

Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal has said that 'a unified mountain voice' is urgently needed to address the growing concern about the effects of climate change.

"I firmly believe that a unified mountain voice is urgently needed to address the growing concern about the effects of climate change on mountain communities and the ecosystem services they provide," he said while addressing the Global Dialogue on Mountains, People and Climate here today.

The Prime Minister also pointed out the need of economic and technical cooperation to countries most affected by climate change impact.

Stating that climate change impact in mountains is unprecedented, he said, it is evident that occupying the front lines of the global climate crisis, mountainous countries are disproportionately burdened by the adverse effects of warming and called for collective resolve to address this pressing issue.

Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal inaugurated the 'Mountains, Human and Climate Change: International Dialogue of Experts' in Kathmandu today by pouring water to a plant.

The dialogue is organized to draw the attention of the international community to the impact of climate change on the mountains. Also, it is to strengthen action based on mountain ecosystems.

Experts from 25 countries, mountainous and small island countries, international community, development partners, international NGOs, private sector and civil society representatives are participating in the dialogue.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs Narayan Kaji Shrestha, Bhutan's Minister for Agriculture and Livestock Lyonpo Younten Phuntsho, Bangladesh's Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Saber Hussain Chaudhary, President of the UN Assistant Agency for Scientific and Technical Advice on Climate Change (SABTA) Harry Bhireu, Chief Secretary Baikuntha Aryal, chiefs and officials of diplomatic missions here as well as high-ranking officials of Nepal government are present.

The speeches of distinguished speakers are continuing in the dialogue.

Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal has said the problems suffered by Nepal due to climate change impact would be internationalized.

Addressing a public assembly organized at Maikot of Rukum East today, he said Nepal will clearly put its views claiming for compensation keeping in mind the huge damage the country has been bearing although its role is negligible in climate change.

PM Dahal made it clear that he has urged the international community time and again to significantly increase the funds provided by the International Fund to Nepal for alleviating the suffering from the climate change as it has so far received only a small amount in that connection.

He claimed that upon his invitation the United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Gutteres paid a visit to Nepal recently and observed from close the impact the climate change is having in Nepal.

According to him, the relief that Nepal is entitled to get from the international community as compensation for bearing the brunt of the impact of climate change is Nepal's right. Stating Nepal is getting punishment for the mistake it has not committed, the PM said the high government officials have been directed to prepare a document on behalf of the government claiming for a large amount of relief from the Climate Fund.

He assured of the government's support and cooperation in declaring Maikot as an ‘Open Museum’ and forwarding the necessary process for this. The PM said initiatives would be taken for pursuing a special project for the promotion of medicinal herbs and development of the agriculture sector in the region.

Saying that agreement has been reached during his official visit to China to operate special projects in some mountainous districts, he said a project would be run in Putha Uttarganga as well since it is also a municipality located in mountainous region. 

He assured of managing the budget on behalf of the federal government for developing Maikot as a 'Living Museum'. The government has kept this region in special priority since it has made big sacrifices and contributions for the revolution. Importance has been given equally to the development of health, education and employment sectors.

Recalling that Nepal has been mentioned as a socialism-oriented economy, the Head of the Government said the government has taken initiatives for social justice, good governance and prosperity, and works have also been started in line with this very resolution. He informed that hundreds of thousands of farmers in the Tarai-Madhes have been freed from extortion by loan sharks. He added that the present government has also provided citizenship certificates to the Nepali bereft of citizenship cards, keeping them in priority.

Hundreds of thousands of youths who have gone abroad have been brought under the social security cover in order to ensure their rights and interests; so, have been the workers in the informal sector and those in self-employment, the PM asserted.

Stating that the government is vigorously working to prepare the basis for socialism, he also presented some facts related to this. The government is equally at work towards controlling corruption and a situation has been created in which high officials as ministers and leaders will have to go to jail, he added.

The PM stated that the government is equally actively working for checking the smuggling of gold, stressing the government will also continuously work towards maintaining good governance.

On a different note, PM Dahal asserted that the present ruling coalition will last for a full five-year term and demonstrate that it works in favor of the country and the people.

United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres, who is currently on a four-day official visit to Nepal, has pledged support for mitigating the impact of climate change in Nepal.

Guterres, who arrived at the Annapurna Base Camp this morning, acknowledged that climate change caused by development and industrial nations has adverse implications in Nepal which has no significant role in causing it.

Stating that global warming, a key aspect of climate change, has led to a rising level of snow melting, resulting in more incidences of landslides and floods.

Calling upon the rich and industrial nations to scale up the implementation of climate change coping strategies, he urged them to assist Nepal in its efforts to cope with the impact of climate change.

The UN Secretary General arrived here on a Nepali Army helicopter and upon his arrival, he was welcomed by local officials including Annapurna Rural Municipality Chair Bishnu Bahadur KC, Chhomrong Tourism Committee office-bearers and local tourism entrepreneurs. 

Visiting UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres has pledged to bring global attention to the impact of climate change on mountain life in Nepal.

He made this commitment while visiting the Khumbu Pasang Lhyamu Rural Municipality-4 in Solukhumbu as part of his four-day official trip to Nepal.

On the occasion, Guterres engaged in an interaction with the local community to discuss the challenges posed by climate change and its impacts on their daily lives. He vowed to inform the world about the consequences of climate change in mountain regions, incorporating the input of the local residents in the upcoming COP-28, the UN Climate Change Conference.

The UN Secretary General highlighted that developed nations bear significant responsibility for climate change, but it is disheartening that rural areas like Khumbu are experiencing its consequences disproportionately, according to rural municipality chair Laxman Adhikari.

Guterres vowed to initiate efforts to mitigate the consequences of climate change and raise global awareness of the urgency of addressing these issues.

During the interaction, local residents informed him about various climate change-related issues, including the melting of snow, climate change-induced hazards, the depletion of water resources, the impact on local agriculture, and occurrences of avalanches. They also discussed the energy crisis in their locality and requested UN support for the development of micro hydropower projects.

The delegation led by Secretary General Guterres includes Jean-Pierre Lacroix, Undersecretary General for Peace Operations, the United Nations, Hanaa Singer-Hamdy, the UN Resident Coordinator in Nepal and other UN officials.

Guterres arrived in Nepal on Sunday on his four-day official visit at the invitation of Prime Minister of Nepal Pushpa Kamal Dahal.

On the first day of his visit, he separately paid a courtesy call on President Ram Chandra Paudel and PM Dahal. He also had separate meetings with Nepali Congress President and former Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba, CPN-UML Chairman and former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, Speaker Devraj Ghimire, Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Purna Bahadur Khadka and Minister for Foreign Affairs Narayan Prakash Saud.

Following the meetings, Secretary General Guterres visited the Patan Durbar Square, a heritage site of historical and archeological importance.

PM Dahal hosted a banquet reception on Sunday evening in his honor. 

During his stay in Nepal, he is planning to visit Pokhara, Annapurna Base Camp and Lumbini.

According to the Parliament Secretariat, he is slated to address the joint session of the Federal Parliament on Tuesday afternoon.