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Shopping for clothes in Kathmandu can sometimes be an ordeal. With cheaply made and sourced Chinese products dominating the market, the options are endless but you can never be sure that the product you buy is of good quality. Colors fade, fabrics shrink and look misshapen, buttons pop off on second wear, and you’ll have to soon replace it with another. Though we have recommended some sustainable brand wears in the past, we know it might not always be a feasible solution especially given the fact that these pieces though well crafted and of high quality can be slightly on the expensive side. So, this week, we bring to you some businesses that offer good quality clothes at reasonable prices.

Ruby’s Collection

If you want good quality cord sets, kurtis, kurta sets, saris, etc. at a price you won’t regret, look no further than Ruby’s Collection. From party wear to everyday outfits, you will be spoilt for choice. Sourced from different parts of India like Banaras and Jaipur, the products at Ruby’s Collection are gorgeous and offer great value for money. You can browse through their collection on their Instagram and Facebook page or even visit their outlet located in Jhamsikhel, Lalitpur.

Nesca Nepal

Head to Nesca Nepal in Baneshwor, Kathmandu, or order from their Instagram page if you want daily wear clothes that are unique and fun. They even have a range of accessories and bags at affordable prices that you can pair with your outfits to create looks that match your mood. Most of the products are sourced from India so that vibe can be a little ethnic with floral motifs, paisleys, and tribal prints dominating the products available here. But you can rest assured that you won’t be paying a paisa extra than what they are worth.

Junkiri

We think the clothes Junkiri sells are beautiful. You will want to buy them all. They are well-designed pieces that are different from what you get at regular stores in Nepal. There is a wide range of tops and kurtis that are perfect for office or party wear. Junkiri’s summer collection is even better than their winter edition so now is just the right time to head to their outlet located in Manbhawan, Lalitpur, to get your wardrobe ready for the hot months ahead. Some of the items might feel slightly pricey but given the quality and the make, it will be worth the investment.

Yantra Fashion

This could very well be your one stop solution for party dresses, pants, tops, t-shirts, skirts, and everything else that you want to include in your closet. They have a good variety of clothes and they almost always have sizes available so you won’t have to be disappointed. What’s more, they have separate accounts for children’s clothes, men’s clothes, and accessories as well. What you see on the posts or photos is exactly what you will be receiving so you don’t have to worry about not liking something once you get it. You won’t have to spend a lot on these items as everything is moderately priced and feels light on the pocket.

Hiking has emerged as one of the most popular activities in Kathmandu, especially after the Covid-19 pandemic brought life to a standstill. During the lockdown, many residents of the Kathmandu Valley found themselves confined to their homes, with little to do except watch TV or scroll through their phones. This period saw a dramatic rise in anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. As a result, people eagerly awaited the day when the lockdown would be lifted, allowing them to venture outdoors and seek solace in the serene green hills. This longing for nature gave rise to a thriving hiking culture in Kathmandu. Here are five must-visit hiking destinations around the Kathmandu Valley:

Shivapuri

Standing at an elevation of 2,732 meters, Shivapuri Peak is one of the most popular hiking destinations near Kathmandu. The hike begins at Budhanilkantha and takes approximately five to six hours to reach the summit. The trail winds through the dense, biodiverse forests of Shivapuri National Park, leading to Nagi Gumba, a tranquil Buddhist monastery perched atop the hill. Along the way, hikers can enjoy stunning views of the Kathmandu Valley and visit Bagdwar, believed to be the source of the Bagmati River. A large fair is held here every Nepali New Year. From Bagdwar, it takes about an hour to reach Shivapuri Peak, where a large open ground and a statue of Shivapuri Baba await. The peak offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Ganesh, Langtang, and Jugal Himalayan ranges. Shivapuri is the second-highest hill in the Kathmandu Valley and can also be accessed via Tarebhir.

Jamacho

For those seeking a shorter hike near Kathmandu, Jamacho is an ideal choice. Located at an altitude of 2,128 meters, the hike begins at the Phulbari gate. As you enter the forest, the serene environment quickly helps you forget the chaos of city life. The hike takes about three to four hours to complete and leads to a sacred Buddhist site with a monastery at the hilltop. From here, you can enjoy clear views of the Manaslu, Ganesh, and Langtang Himalayan ranges, as well as the Kathmandu Valley.

Bhasmasur

Bhasmasur, the third-highest hill in Kathmandu at 2,500 meters, is a fantastic hiking destination in the southern part of the valley. The hike starts from Hattiban and takes around six hours to reach the top. The trail passes through Hattiban Resort and Champadevi, where you can visit the Champadevi Temple and the Padmasambhava Cave. The path winds through dense forests of pine and rhododendron, offering a peaceful escape into nature.

From the summit, hikers are rewarded with panoramic views of the Langtang, Jugal, and Gaurishankar Himalayan ranges. For those looking to extend their adventure, the hike can continue to Chandragiri.

Kakani-Suryachaur

The Kakani-Suryachaur hike is a short and easy trail located to the north of Kathmandu. Situated at an altitude of 2,000 meters, the hike begins in Kakani, a popular picnic spot known for its strawberries and trout fish. The trail takes you through dense forests of pine and rhododendron within Shivapuri National Park. After about three hours, you’ll reach Suryachaur, an open ground offering spectacular sunset views. Local eateries along the way provide opportunities to enjoy a hearty meal amidst nature.

Nagarkot-Sankhu

Nagarkot, a well-known tourist destination, is famous for its sunrise and sunset views. The Nagarkot-Sankhu hike is a perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life. Starting from Nagarkot Bazaar, the trail passes through an eco-trail, Kattike Bhangyang, a Tamang village, and Jaharsinghpauwa before reaching Sankhu, a charming Newari village. The hike takes about five hours and is relatively easy, offering majestic views of the Jugal and Gaurishankar Himalayan ranges. Along the way, hikers can explore traditional Tamang villages and immerse themselves in local culture.

Photos: Achitra Thieng

Until the filing of this report, the Air Quality Index (AQI) of the Kathmandu Valley was 163, putting it as the fifth most polluted city in the world.

As per the AQI chart, Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam was the most polluted with 210 AQI while Beijing of China in the second position with 184 followed by Dhaka of Bangladesh in the third with 175 and New Delhi of India in the fourth with 170.

Amidst this, the Department of Environment has suggested the increased risk of air pollution till the month of Jeth (May-June). Smokes from industries, factories, motorcycles, construction sites, households, from the burning of waste in the open and dust from the construction works are among the identified major sources for air pollution.

Children, aged people, people with respiratory illness including asthma and heart diseases and expectant women are considered more vulnerable to the impact of air pollution.

Disaster Management Expert Dr Dharmaraj Upreti said an AQI 0-50 is good for human health and indicated by green signal and it is suggested by yellow when it is measured 51-100 to urge us to remain alert to the situation.

An AQI of 101 to 150 is indicated by orange and is considered unhealthy for sensitive groups. It is capable of further impacting people with breathing issues and heart diseases.

Similarly, an AQI of 151 to 200 is considered unhealthy and is suggested by red and when it is in between 201 to 300 it is considered very unhealthy and it is hazardous when it exceeds 300. In this emergency condition, everyone is more likely to be affected.

Air Quality Management Action Plan-2076 BS for the Kathmandu Valley has also stated that a situation where the AQI value is higher than 300, it will be treated as a disaster.

Deluxe AC night bus service has been operated from Mustang to the federal capital, Kathmandu.

The service was launched on Thursday.

The Mustang-Muktinath Service Pvt Ltd started the bus service from Muktinath to Kathmandu for the convenience of locals and tourists visiting Mustang.

The Mustang-Kathmandu bus fare is Rs 2,400 per person.

The Pvt Ltd has already been operating deluxe bus, jeep and electronic vehicles before this.

However, the air-conditioned deluxe night bus service is the latest addition. Chief District Officer of Mustang Bishnu Prasad Bhusal inaugurated the deluxe night bus service amidst a program in Mustang on Thursday.

Addressing the programme, he said the religious tourism in Mustang would be boosted only with the expansion of passenger-friendly services.

He also called on the transport entrepreneurs to improve their services in tune with the time.

Vice Chairpersons of Baragung Muktikshetra and Gharapjhong rural municipalities, Diki Gurung and Jamuna Thakali respectively, called for paying attention to the passenger-friendly and visitor-friendly services.

The Mustang-Muktinath Transport Pvt Ltd Chairman Binod BC said they are preparing to operate passenger vehicles on the Lomanthang-Korala route from March 14.

Kathmandu is beautiful. Tourists are fascinated by the myriad things you can do here, from cultural walks and temple visits to one-day hikes and hilly getaways. But for those of us living here, things can become a bit mundane, especially if you don’t have a full day to indulge in activities. This week, we bring to you four things you can do when you are bored and need a little something to cheer you up but only have a few hours at your disposal

Attend the evening aarati at Pashupatinath

The Pashupatinath temple is a really nice place to go to when you want to spend some time by yourself or immerse yourself in some spiritual or religious activities. There’s a lot of space and a lot of things to do in the area. The evening aarati in Pashupatinath riverbanks which in winter takes place from 6:00 pm to 7:30 pm every day is something everybody must witness. It’s a special puja that priests do to worship Lord Shiva and the entire environment comes alive with the sights, sounds, and smells of prayer and worship. Those who have seen it confess to wanting to attend it whenever they can. It’s a sight that slowly calms you down and fills you with a sense of peace. Make sure you go a little before time so that you get a nice place to sit as it can get a bit crowded.

Evening stroll at Patan Durbar Square

A mini vacation is just what we need after a hectic work week. It’s a great way to relax and recharge for another busy week. But a weekend getaway isn’t always possible or practical. This is when a visit to any one of the Durbar Squares in Kathmandu Valley comes in handy. It’s like a mini getaway. There is so much to do and see at the Durbar Squares. Patan Durbar Square is one of our favorites. From quaint little eateries and tea shops to various kiosks selling all sorts of knickknacks, a stroll at Patan Durbar Square makes you feel like a tourist in your hometown. You can just sit on one of the benches at the center of the square and take in the surroundings. It’s especially beautiful at night when all the lights come on. Be sure to bargain if you decide to do some shopping as the vendors tend to hike the prices at random.

Enjoy some delicacies at the farmer’s market at Le Sherpa Restaurant

There are many farmer’s markets in Kathmandu these days. Some happen during the weekdays while others are up and running on the weekends. Our favorite is the one at Le Sherpa that takes place every Saturday from 8:00 am to 1:00 pm. People can be seen just basking in the sun, indulging in some hot tea or coffee or some cold beer too. There are all sorts of stalls with various kinds of food available here to suit your taste. From Biryani and Pad Thai to cakes and cheeses, you can take your pick depending on what you are in the mood for. You can also shop for jewelry, perfumes, handicrafts, home decor, etc. Gather your friends and family and spend a lovely Saturday morning catching up with them at the market while you buy your week’s worth of groceries. You will also be supporting local businesses so it’s a win-win situation.

Spend a few hours at a bookstore

There was a time when Kathmandu didn’t have good bookstores. Now, the book industry is trying to change that. There are many new bookstores coming up and even the ones that have been in business for years have revamped their spaces and services to make shopping for books a fun affair. Ekta books at Thapathali, Kathmandu, spread across three expansive floors, is a nice place to hunt for your next read. They have recently opened a cafe too so you can even have a drink and grab a bite to eat while you read a few pages. Books Mandala in Baluwatar, Kathmandu, is another great place to visit. Here, you are very likely to find the book you have been searching for as they stock all sorts of titles, from popular authors to lesser known writers. Wisdom Books and Aroma Center in Bhanimandal, Lalitpur, can be your go-to place to browse through books, buy some cool notebooks, incense, candles, stationery items, and handicrafts. They have recently opened a small cafe of sorts where you can get some tea, coffee, and homemade food.

A series of murders involving family members in Kathmandu Valley over 10 days has shocked the nation.

Last Saturday, Milan Acharya from Khotang murdered his father Kul Prasad Acharya (56) and brother Pravin Acharya (22). Milan, who had been living in Balkot of Bhaktapur, attacked his sleeping father with a pestle, then moved to another room to kill his younger brother with the same weapon. Mentally disturbed, Milan attempted self-harm in a forest before surrendering to police three days later.

In another incident, a man killed his son near the Shahid Smriti playground in Bhaktapur Municipality-2 on Dec 17. Dip Bahadur Shahi (63) of Achham killed his son Narendra at around 10:15 pm using a knife. Police are investigating why Dip Bahadur, who had come from Achham to donate his kidney to his ailing son, committed the crime.

Likewise, Sarita Tamang (17), originally from Gajuri Rural Municipality-4 of Dhading, was found dead in her rented room in Chandragiri Municipality-10 of Kathmandu on Dec 18. Sarita, who used to live alone, had been out of contact with her family since December 16. Her brother had informed the police that his sister had gone missing. A grade 10 student at Satungal-based Bishnudevi Secondary School, Sarita's body was found hidden beneath her bed. Police have arrested her cousin Bishwas Tamang for the crime. According to police, Bishwas, who has a habit of watching porn, killed Sarita and raping her.

An engineering student was killed in Chyasal of Lalitpur during a dispute over payment of a restaurant bill. Nayan Gurung from Sunsari, who had completed his BE third semester at Himalaya College, was stabbed to death by a restaurant worker. Nayan had gone to The Town Hub Café with friends on the night of Dec 24. At around 9:10 pm, when Nayan tried to pay the bill before leaving, Hemraj Bhatta at the counter demanded that he clear his previous dues first. When the argument escalated, Hemraj pulled out a knife from the counter and stabbed Nayan to death.

These four incidents occurred within 10 days in Kathmandu Valley. Between Dec 16 and 25, five people were murdered in the capital. In three cases, the accused were family members. It is hard to believe that one’s own relatives could commit such heinous crimes. However, police records show there has been an increase in crimes involving relatives, neighbors and acquaintances in recent times.

According to the Kathmandu Valley Police Office, Ranipokhari, 31 people have been found dead in three districts of the valley since the beginning of fiscal year 2024/25 in mid-July, including 18 deaths related to homicide. Data provided by the Nepal Police Headquarters shows 192 cases of murder have been recorded across the country since mid-July. Similarly, 382 homicide-related incidents have been recorded nationwide during the period.

Binod Ghimire, the spokesperson for Kathmandu Valley Police Office, said heinous crimes, except in rare cases, mostly occur due to rage. Crime increases due to rage, frustration from failure, depression, anxiety, family disputes and animosity, he added. In murders by relatives, family issues and rage are more common causes than financial reasons, said Ghimire.

Nepal Police Spokesperson Bishwa Adhikari said heinous crimes by relatives is not just an issue in the capital but a problem nationwide and globally. Looking at police statistics from the past five years, over 1,200 cases involve family members as perpetrators, he said. “The main reason behind relatives committing crimes is mental instability. People commit crimes for momentary gain or in fits of rage. As family harmony weakens, conflicts and disputes arise. The decline in family reconciliation and harmonious environments has led to an increase in criminal incidents. The main causes are alcohol, drugs, circumstances, rage, financial reasons and extramarital affairs,” Adhikari added.

According to Adhikari, homicide cases mostly involve personal reasons. “Very few incidents occur after long planning and preparation. Most horrifying incidents happen due to inability to control momentary rage, and personal enmity and disputes,” he said. “The Balkot twin murder can be attributed to extreme despair and failure of the perpetrator.”

Former SSP Dinesh Raj Mainali said it is impossible to predict when an enraged person might cause an accident or commit a crime. “Rather than saying that police failed to prevent incidents or that impunity is rising, individuals, families, relatives and society must play effective roles in preventing such incidents,” he said. “Everyone needs to pay attention to resolving family disputes. It is also necessary for everyone to consider the mental health of family members.”

According to Mainali, those who stay alone, show pessimism and lack focus in any work might also have problems. “Major accidents can occur if even the minor behavioral changes are ignored,” he added. Dhundi Raj Neupane, the spokesperson for the District Police Office, Bhaktapur, is studying three heinous crimes of the past 10 days. “No one can predict crime within families. Family discord and financial reasons are the main causes of such crimes. Such criminal incidents occur when people are mentally disturbed and unable to control their rage,” he added.

According to spokesperson Neupane, over 90 percent of those involved in criminal activities have basic knowledge of law. “Those involved in drug abuse and cybercrime related cases often claim ignorance of the law. However, the accused in other cases have general information about the law,” he said. “Claiming ignorance of the law after committing a crime doesn’t provide exemption.”

Nepal Police has also initiated a Community Police Partnership Program to connect society and police. Under this program, Nepal Police is conducting awareness programs throughout the country. Such programs are organized in schools, colleges and universities as well.

The Muglin-Kathmandu road will remain closed for three hours daily from today.

According to the Nagdhunga-Muglin Road Project, the under-construction road will be closed from 11 am to 2 pm every day from December 22 to 28 for its up-gradation.

Issuing a notice, the project has urged the drivers coming to Kathmandu via the highway to follow lane discipline.

Vehicles engaged for essential services such as ambulances, police vehicles and fire engines will not be stopped during this period.

According to Bijay Darai, engineer of The Nagdhunga-Muglin Road Project Western Section, heavy vehicles going from Naubise to Gajuri will be stopped at Galchhi-Baireni and light vehicles at Jarekhet. The vehicular movement will be halted to expedite works for improving the Pokharebhir mode.

Similarly, vehicles from Chitwan to Naubise will be stopped at Chalise and Ghatbesi. Vehicles from Muglin to Malekhu will be stopped at Majhimtar and Charaundi bazaars to expedite works to improve the Bishaltar mode.

On Nov 15, Mayor of Kathmandu Metropolitan City Balendra Shah’s Facebook post laid bare the frustrations of managing Kathmandu’s waste crisis. “We talked a lot about Kathmandu’s garbage before the election. We told you about our plan,” he wrote, detailing the exhaustive search for solutions. His words resonated with a city drowning in its own waste, searching for a sustainable path forward.

The scale of this crisis is staggering. Every day, Kathmandu generates over 1,200 metric tons of waste, with the Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC) alone contributing about 500 metric tons. Even more concerning, approximately 15 percent of this waste remains uncollected, littering our streets and waterways. Our rivers—once sacred lifelines of the valley—have become convenient dumping grounds. The Bagmati, Bishnumati, and Tukucha bear silent testimony to our collective failure.

Kathmandu’s Landfill Crisis

The situation at our landfill sites tells a story of poor planning and mounting challenges. The Sisdol landfill, operational since 2005, was meant to be a temporary solution but has been overburdened for 17 years. Its successor, the Banchare Danda landfill, opened in Sept 2021 with a capacity of holding three million cubic meters of waste, but already faces significant challenges. Designed to handle only residual waste (25-30 percent), it currently receives around 60-65 percent of total municipal solid waste due to inadequate treatment and recycling facilities.

Meanwhile, residents near these landfills bear the brunt of our negligence, their ‘paradise turned into hell’ by our waste. They’ve repeatedly protested, demanding promised amenities like a 50-bed hospital, free ambulance services, and job opportunities. Their struggle highlights the human cost of Kathmandu’s waste crisis.

The Indore model

Amidst this crisis, the Indore model emerges as a beacon of hope. This central Indian city’s transformation offers more than inspiration—it provides a practical blueprint for urban waste management. With a population of approximately 2.5m and daily waste generation of 1,115 metric tons (remarkably similar to Kathmandu’s figures), Indore achieved what many deemed impossible. Through systematic implementation of a six-category waste segregation system, the city now processes 100 percent of its waste with zero landfill dependency.

The cornerstone of Indore’s success lies in its comprehensive approach to infrastructure development. The city deployed 850 GPS-equipped waste collection vehicles, each designed with segregated compartments to maintain waste separation from source to processing. Strategic transfer stations were established across the city, ensuring efficient waste movement from collection points to processing facilities. Most importantly, these facilities were fully operational before the city began enforcing strict segregation rules, ensuring a smooth transition to the new system.

Enforcement and incentives formed the second pillar of Indore’s transformation. The city implemented a strict non-collection policy for unsegregated waste, coupled with modest fines starting from just Rs 100 for non-compliance. However, the focus wasn’t just on punishment—neighborhoods achieving 100 percent segregation received public recognition and priority for development projects, creating a positive competitive spirit among communities.

Perhaps most crucial was the cultural transformation driven by the ‘Swachhata Didis’ (cleanliness sisters) program. These trained waste workers became community educators, conducting door-to-door visits to demonstrate proper segregation techniques and explain the environmental impact of mixed waste. Through regular community meetings, school programs, and extensive social media engagement, waste management became a matter of civic pride rather than a mere obligation. This shift in mindset was perhaps the most important aspect that made it all possible.

The economic benefits of this transformation have been remarkable. Today, Indore powers 15 city buses daily with biogas generated from waste. Plastic waste finds new life in road construction, while composting operations generate revenue and create employment opportunities. What was once a financial burden has become a source of sustainable income for the city.

Adapting the model for Kathmandu

While Indore’s success inspires, implementing their model in Kathmandu requires careful adaptation to our unique context. Our city’s topography poses challenges for waste collection logistics, while coordination among multiple municipalities adds administrative complexity. The need for sustainable funding mechanisms and integration of the existing informal waste sector presents additional hurdles.

Yet these challenges aren’t insurmountable. The path forward begins with pilot projects in select wards where good access and strong community engagement provide fertile ground for success. Ward committees can be transformed into waste management cells, while waste workers can be elevated to the status of community educators, following Indore’s successful model.

The path forward

This is where the #FohorAbaMero movement becomes crucial. It should represent more than a social media campaign—it should be a fundamental shift in how we view our relationship with waste. Every household in Kathmandu must embrace waste segregation and take responsibility for their waste generation. Bringing the Indore model to Kathmandu does not mean setting up expensive factories or GPS-based trucks, but a shift—a crucial one—in our mindset. The Indore model’s success is derived from the ideology it holds. When we see illegal dumping, we must speak up. When our community organizes a cleanup, we must participate. When our neighbors seek guidance on waste segregation, we must become their teachers

The transformation of Kathmandu begins with individual action but succeeds through collective impact. Each piece of waste we generate is our responsibility. Mayor Shah’s vision can succeed, but only if we, the residents of Kathmandu, decide to change. Every small action contributes to the larger goal of a cleaner, healthier city.

A call to action

The choice before us is clear. Will we continue to be part of the problem, or will we join a movement of responsible citizens saying #FohorAbaMero? Kathmandu’s future hangs in the balance, and our next action could tip the scales.

Let’s make ‘FohorAbaMero’ our way of life. Because ultimately, the transformation of Kathmandu doesn’t depend on Mayor Shah, the federal government, or private companies. It depends on each of us accepting that every piece of waste we generate is our responsibility. Together, we can turn the tide. Together, we can make Kathmandu clean again.

The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology has said that the country now has an impact of westerly winds and the hilly belt of Koshi, Bagmati and Gandaki Provinces have slight impacts of local winds too. 

The Department said that the temperatures across the country including in the Kathmandu Valley have dropped with the end of the monsoon season.

The minimum temperature of Kathmandu was recorded at 16 degrees Celsius today while the maximum temperature is predicted to remain in between 26 to 28 degrees Celsius. 

According to the Department, the weather is expected to remain partly to generally cloudy in the hilly areas and partly cloudy to mainly fair in the rest of the country. Light rain with thunder and lightning is likely to occur at a few places in the hilly region of Koshi, Bagmati and Gandaki Provinces and at one or two places in the hilly region of the rest of the country.

Likewise, it is predicted that the weather will remain partly to generally cloudy in the hilly areas of Koshi, Bagmati and Gandaki Provinces and partly cloudy to mainly fair in the rest of the country.

Light rain with thunder and lightning is likely to occur at one or two places in the hilly region of Koshi, Bagmati and Gandaki Provinces.

The Police has urged drivers to use alternative routes to the Hetauda-Kulekhani-Phakhel-Kathmandu road as the road has been disrupted at a place called Heavy at Indrasarobar Mural municipality-2 and 3.

Police Inspector at the Area Police Office Bhimphedi, Lalita Dhakal said that drivers are advised to use the Tribhuvan highway and Kanti highway while traveling from Hetauda to Kathmandu. She said that the road near Heavy uphill near Simkhola, Kulekhani has been damaged to the point that even light vehicles cannot climb the slope.

In view of this, the local police have been guiding the vehicles from Bhainse towards Kathmandu via Palung of the Tribhuvan highway, Inspector Dhakal said.

Due to incessant rainfall, the supply of fresh vegetables in Kathmandu has drastically reduced. According to data from the Kalimati Fruit and Vegetable Market Development Committee, the daily import of 600 to 700 tons of vegetables has now been limited to 150 tons. As the supply decreases, there are signs that prices will rise.

On Sept 27, 571,912 kilograms of vegetables were imported to Kalimati, the main market for vegetables brought in from outside. However, on Sept 28, only 156,992 kilograms of fresh vegetables arrived, marking a 72.56 percent reduction. Binay Shrestha, the Information Officer of the Kalimati Fruit and Vegetable Market Development Committee, stated that while the usual daily intake is around 700 tons, it has now dropped to just 100 to 150 tons.

He explained, “The demand from consumers remains the same, but when the supply weakens, prices are naturally affected. The prices of fresh vegetables have increased, though the prices of potatoes and onions have not risen as much.” Shrestha added that if the shortage persists, prices will continue to be impacted.

Which vegetable supply has decreased?

In the Kalimati market, the supply of small tomatoes, red potatoes, dried onions, cabbage, brinjal, beans, bitter gourd, sponge gourd, okra, spinach, mushrooms, cucumber, ginger, chilies, and green coriander has significantly decreased.

Compared to the previous day, these vegetables have seen reductions of up to 96.77 percent. Capsicum is in particularly short supply. On Sept 27, 1,550 kilograms of mutton chilies were brought to Kalimati, but only 50 kilograms arrived on the 28th, with the average price at Rs 125 per kilogram.

With the reduced supply in Kalimati, a wider shortage has begun. In addition to fresh vegetables, the entry of red potatoes and dried onions has also fallen, with decreases of 67.21 percent and 63.17 percent, respectively. The wholesale price of red potatoes now averages Rs 78 per kilogram, while dried onions are priced around Rs 119. The supply of small tomatoes has dropped by 4.66 percent, with only 14,625 kilograms being imported, compared to 15,340 kilograms the previous day. Its price has risen to Rs 100 per kilogram.

Other fresh vegetables have seen similar declines: cabbage by 93 percent, brinjal by 86.40 percent, peas by 75.22 percent, chickpeas by 54.33 percent, sponge gourd by 95.14 percent, okra by 91.16 percent, spinach by 35.66 percent, mushrooms by 87.83 percent, cucumber by 90.17 percent, ginger by 40 percent, and green coriander by 94.33 percent.

Despite these reductions, the supply of snake gourd, green pumpkin, chayote, tofu, and green chilies has increased at a good pace. With these vegetables in peak season, their prices remain relatively low. Green pumpkin, for instance, is being sold at wholesale prices of Rs 50 to Rs 60 per kilogram.

Minister’s directive to collect data on agricultural damage

Agriculture and Livestock Development Minister Ramnath Adhikari has directed ministry officials to formulate a new strategy after assessing the damage caused by recent floods in the agricultural sector.

In an emergency meeting held at the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development on Sunday, the minister urged the swift collection of data on the damage inflicted by Saturday’s floods.

The minister emphasized, “It has been reported that the floods have severely impacted agricultural production, and this needs to be addressed.” The ministry has decided to promptly gather accurate data on the damage and develop a corresponding strategy.

This summer, Kathmandu experienced its highest temperature ever recorded. The Department of Meteorology and Hydrology (DHM) reported a scorching temperature of 35.3°C on June 15. The city is urbanizing at an annual rate of four percent, and its built-up area has grown to almost four times its size since the mid-1980s. Consequently, the risks associated with the Urban Heat Island effect are also increasing. Research by Mishra et al. (2019) indicated a 5°C temperature variation between forest land and developed land in the Kathmandu Valley. As rapid population growth and unplanned urbanization continue in the valley, the temperature difference is also expected to increase.

Urban Heat Island, or UHI, is a phenomenon where urban areas experience considerably higher temperatures than their surrounding rural areas. The main causes of UHIs include anthropogenic factors, heat absorption by urban infrastructure, and the albedo effect. The albedo effect is a measure of how reflective a surface is. Darker surfaces absorb more heat and release it back into the atmosphere, while lighter surfaces reflect heat away. Therefore, as cities replace natural landscapes with buildings, roads and pavement, which absorb and retain heat, the overall temperature increases. The impacts of UHIs are far-reaching, including air pollution, higher energy consumption, disruption of urban ecosystems and adverse health outcomes, especially for vulnerable populations such as the marginalized, elderly, and urban poor.  

In a country where urban poverty has increased from 15.46 percent in 2010-11 to 18.34 percent in 2022-23, and where the Kathmandu Metropolitan City’s handling of the urban poor has been condemned by Human Rights Watch, critical questions arise—How will the rights of street vendors, landless individuals, slum dwellers and other vulnerable groups be safeguarded amidst rising temperatures? 

Additionally, with heat-related illnesses expected to increase due to the UHI effect, it is crucial to assess whether the healthcare system in Nepal is prepared to handle the added pressure. Will vulnerable groups, with their limited capacities, have access to essential health services, adequate housing, a decent standard of living and an overall quality of life, or will they continue to be mistreated? Despite global awareness regarding UHIs, the concerned authorities in the Kathmandu Metropolitan City are yet to acknowledge the alarming rise in temperatures this summer.

In contrast to this local inaction, cities around the world are actively addressing the UHI effect with innovative solutions. For example, Indian cities like Ahmedabad, Bhopal, Jodhpur and Surat have introduced cool roofs-roofs covered with reflective materials that bring down temperatures inside and outside buildings. Applying white reflective paint on roofs is a simple yet effective strategy that has seen widespread adoption globally. 

Abu Dhabi has introduced self-shading tower blocks, Medellin has developed extensive green corridors, Paris is creating cool islands, Seville has implemented a policy of shade and Singapore boasts of its renowned Gardens by the Bay. These diverse approaches demonstrate how cities are dealing with the UHI effect based on their unique environments and challenges.

In response to escalating temperatures, cities are also appointing Chief Heat Officers (CHOs) – a term coined by a branch of the American think tank Atlantic Council called the Adrienne Arsht-Rockefeller Foundation Resilience Center (Arsht-Rock). CHOs are responsible for developing and implementing strategies to combat extreme heat, protect vulnerable populations and enhance urban resilience to rising temperatures. Miami paved the way by appointing the world’s first CHO, and other cities, such as Phoenix, Athens, Freetown, and Dhaka North followed suit. Notably, Dhaka North was the first Asian city to appoint a CHO.

While cities worldwide, including those in South Asia, are making commendable strides in addressing UHIs, Kathmandu Metropolitan City’s lackluster approach to this issue is highly concerning. Kathmandu must learn from other cities and implement targeted strategies to mitigate the UHI effect or face intensified challenges in the coming years. The rising temperatures in Kathmandu represent the broader challenges posed by global warming, climate change and increased urbanization. These issues demand urgent attention, action and innovative solutions from policymakers, urban planners and the general public.

While initiatives such as Urban Green Spaces (UGS), tree plantations and community-managed forests are underway, a significant gap remains in addressing and raising public awareness on UHIs. Comprehensive research, robust satellite-based data collection and substantial evidence are essential to guide sustainable urban planning. Given the pace and scale of urbanization, the government of Nepal must step up its efforts in urban governance and take appropriate mitigation and adaptation measures by coordinating with relevant ministries and departments to plan greener, smarter and liveable cities. This involves prioritizing the conservation of natural resources and natural heat sinks, investing in alternative energy solutions, and implementing innovative strategies to enhance urban resilience. It is also crucial that policies and plans be grounded in a deep understanding of the local context, addressing challenges facing vulnerable groups, and ensuring that no one is left behind.

The author holds a Master’s degree in Public Policy

One of the most serious and infectious diseases that is waterborne, cholera has resurfaced in Nepal this monsoon also, infecting 16 individuals in three districts thus far, according to health authorities.

Lalitpur, so far, has the highest number of cases (8), followed by Kailali (5) and Kathmandu (3), according to the Ministry of Health and Population. At first, a person based in Godavari, Lalitpur, was referred to the Teku Hospital in Kathmandu on the basis of symptoms and the case was confirmed 72 hours later.

According to Spokesperson for the ministry, Dr Prakash Budhathoki, contaminated water and filthy surroundings are the primary causes of cholera. “Contaminated water causes several diseases. Drinking boiled water can keep such diseases at bay,” he said, stressing the need to raise awareness about the importance of drinking boiled water. He said treatment is available at Teku Hospital and other hospitals.

In 2022, the Kathmandu valley witnessed 77 confirmed cases of cholera. In the wake of a cholera outbreak in ward numbers 11, 12 and 13 of Kathmandu Metropolitan City in 2023, concerned ward offices administered oral cholera vaccine in coordination with public health authorities. 

This waterborne disease, caused by Vibrio cholera and coliform bacteria, affects all age groups, though older people and newborns with lower immune systems are particularly susceptible. 

An inadequate sanitation system and poor hygiene are mainly behind cholera in Nepal. Rainwater and leftover water may also contain cholera-causing bacteria. 

Dr Sher Bahadur Pun, chief of the Clinical Research Unit at Sukraraj Hospital, highlights the importance of maintaining the quality of water for curbing waterborne diseases. Ensuring water quality is a basic duty of concerned authorities, he says: Such essential services should not be halted under any pretext.

“Only 80 percent of the patients show clear and common symptoms of cholera whereas 20 percent show rapid symptoms. Cholera can prove fatal if the patient is not rushed to the nearest hospital on time,” according to Budhathoki. 

So, taking a cue from symptoms, there is an urgent need to rush the affected people to nearest health facilities. Administering oral rehydration salt powder like Jeevan Jal from time to time is crucial for saving the patients’ lives. 

Hospitals in Nepal are well-equipped to deal with the cases of cholera and the health ministry is prepared to supply essential facilities and materials to deal with the disease, according to officials.

Three persons have been detected with cholera in Kathmandu on Sunday.

The persons from Kalimati area were tested positive for cholera bacteria at the National Public Health Laboratory, Teku.

Chief of Health Office in Kathmandu, Dr Arjun Sapkota, informed that those suffering from the disease were receiving treatment at Shukraraj Tropical and Infectious Disease Hospital.

"A team has been mobilized to study how the bacteria-borne disease was spread. We're alert on not letting it spread further," Dr Sapkota added.

Earlier, seven persons were detected with cholera in a correction center of Lalitpur.

The disease might have spread due to consumption of contaminated water in the wake of monsoon rains.

A few days back, polio was found at Teku, a confluence of Tukucha rivulet and the Bagmati River in the Kathmandu Valley.

The doctors have urged everyone to maintain proper hygiene with consumption of pure drinking water and sanitation in place.

Diarrhoea, nausea, dehydration, yellow urine, and sunken eyes are some of the symptoms of cholera. If the persons suffering from these symptoms are not treated on time, they may succumb to it.

China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has seen mixed progress in Nepal since the two countries signed the agreement in 2017. A common narrative suggests that no significant projects have been completed under the BRI framework, leading many foreign policy observers to conclude that China has not succeeded in expanding its influence in Kathmandu, largely due to implicit pressure from the West and India. 

Nevertheless, the implementation of BRI remains a top agenda item in interactions between representatives of the Communist Party of China and Nepal’s political parties, especially the communist ones, which have expressed dissatisfaction over the perceived slow progress.

From the Chinese perspective, several soft and hard projects launched in Nepal fall under the broader BRI framework. However, China is pushing for the implementation of more infrastructure projects, as globally, the BRI is perceived mainly as an infrastructure initiative. 

Beyond BRI, China’s reach and influence in Nepal have significantly expanded across various sectors—from education to security, from village to national levels, and from electric vehicles to airline companies. Recent interactions even include the judiciary and parliament, with notable exchanges of visits between officials from both countries.

In November last year, Nepal’s Chief Justice Bishowambhar Prasad Shrestha visited China, followed by a reciprocal visit this week by Liu Guixian, a senior justice of the Supreme People’s Court of China. Senior leaders from Nepal’s National Assembly and the Speaker of the House of Representatives have also visited China in recent years.

Recent examples of China-Nepal cooperation include Chinese Ambassador to Nepal Chen Song’s participation in multiple events. These events illustrate China’s diverse offerings to Nepal, such as organizing the first intra-party school Chinese pop dance competition involving students from 13 primary and secondary schools, and a cardiovascular screening program by specialists from Fuwai Yunnan Hospital, which provided screenings for 4,682 Nepali children diagnosed with congenital cardiovascular disease, offering them free treatment in China.

Additionally, China has resumed the China Higher Level Education Fair, halted for two decades, and Nepal’s colleges and universities are increasingly offering Chinese language courses. The number of scholarships for Nepali students to study in China has also increased, as has the participation of Nepali bureaucrats going to China for education. Beyond education and health, China is also interested in importing Nepali tea, and the two countries are working on petroleum product collaborations. These are just some instances where there is a long list of new areas of collaboration between the two countries. 

For a long time, Western and European countries have been expanding their influence in Nepal through non-governmental organizations. Now Chinese non-governmental organizations (NGOs) are also becoming more active in Nepal. The China Foundation for Rural Development (CFRD), for instance, has been working in the areas of health, education, and other social issues, particularly in the Tarai region. Recently, CFRD provided aid to fire-affected people in the Mahottari district but this is not the first time. CFRD has been providing support in Madhes region since 2015 and it continues to expand. 

China has developed networks and projects to engage with all segments of Nepali society, and Ambassador Song has been instrumental in enhancing bilateral engagement through active social media presence and interactions with media personnel.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs Narayan Kaji Shrestha has been a strong supporter of bilateral projects, frequently attending events organized by the Chinese Embassy and other Chinese-funded local organizations. Shrestha is notably the only minister in the Pushpa Kamal Dahal-led government, who has been consistently pushing for the signing of the BRI implementation plan, which remains pending.

As China aspires to engage more with Nepal, bilateral visits are expanding, with politicians from various levels visiting China. But it is noteworthy that visits by leaders from the Nepali Congress (NC) are fewer compared to those from communist parties. This could be due to fewer invitations from China or a lack of interest from senior NC leaders. Despite this, both Chinese and NC leaders acknowledge the historical role of bilateral relations, often referencing BP Koirala’s contributions from the 1960s.In summary, while progress on the BRI in Nepal may have been slow, overall Chinese engagement in the country has picked up speed, balancing hard and soft power. The Nepal-China border, which had been largely closed since 2015 and further impacted by Covid-19, has recently reopened, facilitating increased movement of people and goods. This week, the two countries are holding their 16th Secretary-level meeting to review the entire bilateral relationship. To measure China's influence in Nepal solely through the BRI lens is to overlook the broader picture. 

Presently there is an influence of the monsoon system in the eastern part of the country. In the rest of the country, there is a partial influence of local and westerly winds.

The weather will be partly to generally cloudy in the hilly regions, including Koshi, Madhes and Bagmati Provinces while it will remain clear in the rest of the part.

According to the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology, light rain with thunder and lightning is taking place at some places of Koshi Province. Meteorologist at the Department, Govinda Jha said scattered rainfall is likely to occur at some places in the Kathmandu Valley this afternoon due to the influence of the local wind.

However, the temperature will remain high. It will take a few more days for the monsoon to arrive. The maximum temperature is likely to stand between 31 and 33 degrees Celsius.

The weather will be partly to generally cloudy in the hilly regions of Bagmati and Gandaki Provinces and fair in the rest of the country this afternoon. Light to moderate rain with thunder and lightning is likely to occur at some places of the hilly regions of Koshi, Bagmati and Gandaki provinces.

According to the Meteorological Forecasting Division, the weather will be partly to generally cloudy in the hilly regions of Koshi, Bagmati and Gandaki Provinces tonight.

Light to moderate rain with thunder and lightning is likely to occur at a few places of the hilly regions of Koshi, Bagmati and Gandaki Provinces and at one or two places of the rest of the country.

Similarly, there is a possibility of wind storm in some places of Koshi and Madhes Provinces.

In the next 24 hours, light to moderate rain with thunder and lightning is likely to occur at a few places of the hilly regions of Koshi, Bagmati and Gandaki Provinces and at one or two places of the rest of the country.

The Department has urged the people to remain alert as there is a possibility of storm in some places of the Tarai of Koshi Province and Madhes Province.