Kathmandu— Prime Minister Balendra Shah has described the devastating flash flood that struck Nepal's Bhotekoshi River on August 26 as an unmistakable indication of the growing risks facing the Himalayan region due to climate change. The event, which caused significant loss and damage, underscores the urgent need for practical action plans to mitigate these risks.
Climate Change Risks in the Himalayas
The flood has raised profound questions about the future of the Himalayan region, long a symbol of strength and permanence. Climate scientists have consistently linked such events to global warming, indicating that these impacts are no longer abstract but are unfolding with increasing force across South Asia. The Himalayas serve as a critical source of fresh water for 2 billion people downstream, making their stability crucial.
Identifying and Monitoring Risks
A 2020 study by ICIMOD and UNDP identified 47 potentially dangerous glacial lakes across the Koshi, Gandaki, and Karnali river basins. Of these, 21 are in Nepal, 25 in Tibet Autonomous Region of China, and one in India. The government must urgently assess these risks using state-of-the-art technologies like drones, satellites, and sensors to monitor changes in glacial lakes and the communities at risk.
Building Disaster-Resilient Infrastructure
Nepal is still mourning the loss from the flood. The nation must strengthen its resolve to build disaster-resilient infrastructure that does not become a death trap during emergencies. This includes robust disaster management capacity and early warning systems that effectively communicate imminent dangers to ordinary people.
International Responsibility for Climate Justice
The international community is expected to take responsibility for climate adaptation and Loss and Damage financing as part of climate justice. Nepal argues that it should not bear the brunt of a problem it did not create, emphasizing the need for fairness rather than charity in addressing these issues.
(With inputs from RN)
Originally published on abcnews.com.np.
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