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In some Tarai districts, schools have closed due to climate change impacts, highlighting a lack of attention to the effects on children and youth. Global climate discussions often overlook how climate events affect young people, especially those from vulnerable groups. Save the Children Nepal is actively engaged in youth-focused initiatives to address climate challenges and environmental pollution, empowering young individuals to lead climate action. Collaborating with organizations like Kayapalat, Nepalese Youth for Climate Action, Queer Care, and Blue Diamond Society, Save the Children has launched campaigns such as Panni Se Dur Janakpur, Shift, Generation Hope, and Red Alert. The following narratives showcase the experiences of some children and youth engaged in these campaigns:

Diwakar Uprety, Founder, Kayapalat, Madhes Province

The Panni Se Dur Janakpur campaign in the Janakpur sub-metropolitan city of Madhes province aims to reduce the use of plastic products. Plastic is omnipresent and takes approximately 4,100 years to decompose, posing a significant threat to the environment and future generations. Its adverse effects on society are compounded when considering the detrimental impact on children and youth, making the campaign crucial for prevention and mitigation efforts. A World Health Organization report revealed microplastics in the blood of seven to 13 percent of individuals, underscoring the urgency of addressing the plastic crisis. Furthermore, plastic pollution contributes to climate change. To empower youth in tackling this issue, the campaign was implemented with the support of Save the Children, successfully raising awareness among young individuals about the challenges posed by climate change and its repercussions on their lives. Initiated in 2021, this campaign has made significant strides in promoting social reform.

Pushpa Acharya, Engineer, Shift, Karnali Province

Even in Karnali, a province facing developmental challenges, the impact of climate change is evident. The region's bare hills and water scarcity have not only affected the adult population but have also posed challenges for children and youth. The Shift campaign, initiated as part of Save the Children's My Forest Child project, addresses the community's changing environment. This initiative involves collaboration with the forest consumer committee, children, and local authorities to plant trees, raise awareness about climate change, and empower children to address environmental issues. On World Environment Day, 24 children from Jajarkot are leading a campaign under the Shift initiative. The campaign aims to involve schools, community forest users, assistant forest offices, and other stakeholders in activities such as planting 600 saplings in Chhedagad Municipality of Jajarkot district, Karnali. 

Anjali Shahi Chalise, Network Coordinator, Nepalese Youth for Climate Action

Youth are often described as the backbone of a nation, embodying the potential to become mentally, physically, and socially competent individuals. Nepalese Youth for Climate Action was established to address the impact of climate change on young people, recognizing it as a global crisis. This organization advocates for climate action through extensive youth engagement, conducting advocacy, public awareness campaigns, and capacity-building initiatives. Previously, the organization implemented the Red Alert program and currently runs the Shift Captain campaign, which was established in 2008 and has established chapters in seven provinces. Engaging with approximately 500 schools, the campaign aims to raise public awareness about the impact of climate change on children and youth through various art forms, prioritizing education over mere verbal communication. To commemorate World Environment Day, the campaign has organized a week-long program featuring climate-related activities such as children's panel discussions, solidarity marches, and other events.

Suman Gyawali, Member, Queer Care

It is often acknowledged that the rights of individuals, including those with disabilities, marginalized groups, Dalits, women, and sexual and gender minorities, especially youth and children, are not adequately safeguarded. The experiences of young people differ from those of sexual minorities, necessitating tailored programs that address their unique needs. In response to this, the Queer Care campaign has been launched to provide targeted support for these groups, aiming to mitigate the mental health impacts of climate change and create a more inclusive society. This campaign was initiated due to the lack of an enabling environment for these communities. With the backing of Save the Children, the campaign, scheduled to run from June to November, aims to benefit over 100 youth from these diverse groups through a series of art seminars, mental health workshops, and other initiatives.

‘Climate crisis is a child rights crisis’

Ayush Joshi, Director of Advocacy, Campaigns, Communications and Media (ACCM)

Save the Children acknowledges that the current climate crisis poses a significant challenge to child rights, viewing it as a cross-generational crisis that represents the most severe threat to children’s well-being, education, and protection. Without effectively addressing this crisis, achieving resilient and sustainable development goals, particularly for marginalized communities and vulnerable children and families, will be unattainable. Save the Children advocates for upholding children's rights by developing a strategic plan aimed at shielding all children from trauma and stress through empowering children, families, and systems. 

In climate discussions, there is often an over-reliance on ‘experts’, sidelining the invaluable lived experiences and knowledge of children and young individuals. In Nepal, Save the Children serves as a mediator, actively involving children from diverse regions and empowering them to participate in conversations about and offer solutions to the climate crisis. Our approach prioritizes listening, meaningful engagement, and empowering children and youth to play a leading role in climate dialogues. We approach campaigns through a localized perspective, ensuring not just the availability of resources but also advocating for children and young people’s voices to be emphasized and their expertise to be recognized. 

Within climate justice advocacy and campaigns, it is crucial to advance and support the leadership of children and youth, strategically leveraging their voices to influence both local and global conversations and sharing influence and resources to establish proactive strategies. Our recent publication, ‘Breathless Futures’, sheds light on the detrimental effects of air pollution on children and minority groups. The report demonstrates that poor air quality poses numerous health risks, such as respiratory illnesses, skin conditions, and pregnancy complications. It stresses the importance of looking beyond the health consequences of air pollution, considering its broader impact on children’s overall well-being and development. 

Through consultations, children have expressed concerns about school closures, disrupted learning, and constraints on their families’ livelihoods due to air pollution. Viewing air pollution as a critical issue with severe repercussions for children, women, and minority groups, advocacy efforts and campaigns should incorporate the real-life experiences of these groups and challenge biases and norms that downplay the severity of the air pollution threat.

I was invited by CREASION Nepal to Khurkot, where, in collaboration with Golanjor Rural Municipality, they organized a plastic waste cleaning program. Together with Youth Cohorts, the Armed Police Force, Nepal Police, Traffic Police, and other stakeholders, they conducted a river cleanup campaign that prevented approximately 25 tons of plastic waste from entering the Sunkoshi river.

On May 31, more than 100 individuals in Khurkot, Golanjor-7, participated in the cleanup initiative organized by Project CAP (Collaborative Approach for Preventing Plastic Leakages in Rivers).

Ujjwal Upadhay, the team lead for Project CAP, shared with me, “We successfully relocated 24,575 kg of waste from the riverside to a designated landfill site using a loader, an excavator, and two trucks, each making 20 trips with a load capacity of 1.2 tons per trip. This effort not only opened a path to the new landfill site but also managed the remaining waste at the previous hotspot using standard waste management practices.”

Aanand Mishra, founder and president of CREASION, remarked, “We should not rely solely on external motivation or funding for crucial work like nature conservation. This commitment should come from within, ensuring a better future for Nepal. However, in some cases, such incentives are necessary for innovative solutions.”

Aasha Kumari Sah, a dedicated advocate for youth rights and education and the Bardibas Coordinator for the VFC-Youth Cohort, highlighted the importance of this initiative. “Our goal is to equip young people with the knowledge and tools they need to make a tangible difference in their communities. By fostering a culture of recycling, we can collectively work towards a cleaner, greener planet.”

I also spoke with Sujata Koirala, General Secretary of CREASION, representing the VFC-Youth Cohort initiative within Project CAP. She explained that through various campaigns, advocacy programs, and community outreach, they aim to instill a sense of responsibility and enthusiasm for recycling among the youth and the larger community.

Engaging with youths in the cleanup campaign was an inspiring experience that also motivated me greatly. Their energy and dedication to the cause were infectious, reinforcing the importance of community involvement in environmental conservation. Witnessing their commitment to making a tangible difference highlighted the power of collective action and the vital role young people play in shaping a sustainable future.

The Nepali Army, responsible for constructing the Kathmandu-Tarai Fast Track, has been found to have distributed funds illegally. The Auditor General’s report revealed that the Army disbursed over $76,000 (around Rs 10m) to foreign nationals on tourist visas, which is against the law prohibiting such individuals from working for wages.

The Army employed South Koreans, including senior geologists and slope stabilization specialists, who received monthly wages while on tourist visas. The report detailed payments of $29,663, $23,615, and $22,836 in different phases. The Office of the Auditor General has recommended adherence to immigration laws.

Brigadier General Gaurab Kumar KC, spokesperson for the Nepali Army, explained that South Koreans staying long-term convert their visas to working visas. However, those visiting for short-term work often end up working on tourist visas because it takes around a month to obtain working visas.

“Their working time is almost over by the time their visas are converted. So, they work here on tourist visas, and we have to pay them for their work,” KC told ApEx. He mentioned that the concerns raised by the Office of the Auditor General have been noted and are being addressed.

The report also highlighted that key experts, both foreign and Nepali, were changed twice, potentially impacting project quality. Rule 69 (F1) of the Public Procurement Regulations, 2064, prohibits changing the lead human resource proposed in the consultant’s terms of reference (ToR) unless due to illness, accident, or death post-contract.

The Auditor General’s report further highlighted the Army’s mismanagement of about Rs 80m worth of bailey bridge materials. The project procured materials worth Rs 414.23m for 14 sets of 51-meter-long bailey bridges. Despite the contract stipulating the supply of all 14 sets, only eight were installed. Of the remaining six sets, three were installed by the Bridging Division of the Army, while three sets worth Rs 78.51m were left to deteriorate at the Khokana site. The report urged the project to ensure proper use of materials to prevent rust and degradation.

Additionally, the Army failed to maintain proper records for construction materials received from forest areas, as required by law. Receipts for stones, gravel, and other construction materials extracted from forest areas should be submitted to the Division Forest Office, but the Army has not maintained these records. The Auditor General's report suggested that the project keep accurate an updated records.

According to the report, Rs 2.27bn was spent on consulting services, comprising 4.85 percent of the construction cost and 4.1 percent of the total cost. As the national pride project duration increases, consultancy costs will rise, emphasizing the need for timely project completion.

Moreover, the design of the 6.4 km road in Khokana of Lalitpur under project Package 11 has not been prepared due to disputes regarding land acquisition. Out of 5,172 acres of land to be acquired, 344 acres are still pending acquisition. A committee, chaired by the Defense Minister, has been formed to resolve the land dispute in Khokana. The report warns that delays in resolving these disputes and in design-related work will increase both the cost and the duration of the project. It emphasizes the importance of completing dispute resolution and design work promptly to meet the project’s target completion period.

On 11 Aug 2017, the Pushpa Kamal Dahal-led government handed over the Kathmandu-Tarai Fast Track Road Project to the Army. Of the 13 project packages, seven have completed purchase management, with Rs 49.24bn spent so far. Three packages are under court consideration, and contract management for two packages is ongoing. The design for the Khokana section under Package 11 is still pending due to land acquisition issues.

Since the project’s handover six years ago, the deadline has been extended four times, with the current deadline set for April 2027. However, the project's progress stands at only 33.99 percent, with financial progress at 35.63 percent.

The project has also faced numerous controversies, including the approval of a blacklisted Indian firm for bidding. Despite being blacklisted, India’s KMC Construction Ltd was shortlisted alongside Poly Changda Engineering Co Ltd of China and RVNL-ABL Joint Venture for one of the project packages. 

As per the Public Procurement Act and Regulations, the project must be awarded to the lowest bidder. With KMC Construction bidding Rs 14bn against RVNL-ABL Joint Venture’s Rs 17bn and Changda Engineering’s Rs 28bn, the Indian firm is likely to secure the project despite its blacklisted status.

Experts have criticized the protest against the US Embassy in Kathmandu, staged under the leadership of a sitting lawmaker to press the embassy to issue a travel visa to Nepali cricketer Sandeep Lamichhane for the 2024 T20 World Cup.

Vijay Kant Karna, a former ambassador, emphasized that it is up to each country to decide whom to allow entry. “Not only the US, Nepal also has dozens of countries in its blacklist, meaning it is quite difficult for the nationals of those countries to obtain Nepali visa,” he says.

Chandra Dev Bhatta, an expert on foreign policy and geopolitics, agrees. “Issuing/denying visas is a sovereign right of a country,” he says: “Mass demonstrations are not the right approach when it comes to dealing with visa denials.” 

On May 29, Gyanendra Shahi, a Member of Parliament, had led a demonstration against the US Embassy in the House of Representatives after the host country denied him a visa for the second time in 10 days, crushing his hopes of participating in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 in the US and the West Indies. Karna warned that such actions could harm the long-standing relationship between Nepal and the US.

“Despite efforts, including a diplomatic note from the government of Nepal, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Youth and Sports, National Sports Council, Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) and the International Cricket Council (ICC), to secure cricketer Sandeep Lamichhane’s participation in the 2024 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in the United States and West Indies, the US Embassy has stated its inability to grant him a visa,” CAN announced in a press release.

Government Spokesperson Rekha Sharma acknowledged that the embassy had the right to deny visas, even to cricketers, regardless of the government’s initiatives.

Shiva Prasad Regmi, spokesperson for the Ministry of Youth and Sports, told ApEx that it is a standard procedure for the sports ministry to seek assistance from the foreign ministry when athletes face visa issues, noting that they made similar requests in the past.

However, assistant spokesperson for MoFA, Rishi Raj Acharya, said he was unaware of the developments. The US embassy, following its initial visa denial, had stated it could not comment on individual visa cases due to confidentiality under the US law. 

Experts believe Lamichhane’s visa denial might be linked to ongoing legal issues, as the District Public Prosecutor’s Office plans to appeal his acquittal by the Patan High Court to the Supreme Court. Lamichhane had returned to Nepal from Trinidad & Tobago, where he was playing for the Caribbean Premier League, in response to an INTERPOL notice issued in connection with a rape case. They suggest that this may have influenced the visa decision.

The US had denied Narendra Modi a visa in 2005 for violation of religious freedom. Modi was supposed to be the chief guest at the Asian American Hotel Owners’ Association in Florida, but the 2002 Gujarat riots came to revisit him in the most unlikely of circumstances.

Finance Minister Barshaman Pun on Tuesday unveiled a Rs 1.86trn budget for the upcoming fiscal year 2024/25. The government has allocated Rs1.14tn of the total budget for current expenditure, Rs 352bn for capital spending, and Rs 367bn for financing. 

The government has announced the fiscal year 2024/25 as a year of economic reforms and planned the budget accordingly. 

“The budget aims to address long-standing challenges in the economy, including an imbalance in public finance, the increasing size of public debt, limited capital expenditures, and the lack of revenue collection as per the targets. These initiatives will be undertaken through the implementation of fresh programs for economic reforms,” Minister Pun told the federal parliament during his budget speech.

Strategies and priorities for economic reforms

Pun announced that the provinces will be developed as economic hubs in the upcoming financial year. He also revealed plans for the creation of a specialized financial center in coordination with the private sector. 

According to him, Koshi Province will be developed as an economic hub for industry, Madhes for agriculture, Bagmati for information technology, Gandaki for tourism, Lumbini for small and medium enterprises, Karnali for herbs, and Sudurpaschim for religious tourism.

Minister Pun also announced that legal arrangements will be made for commercial production of marijuana for medicinal purposes. Although a similar announcement was made in the current budget and the Ministry of Home Affairs conducted discussions to formulate criteria for allowing the cultivation of marijuana, these efforts were unsuccessful.

The budget estimates for the upcoming fiscal year aim at achieving five objectives: increasing production, productivity, and employment; securing investment and growth; accelerating economic activities by boosting private sector morale; achieving human resource development; and alleviating economic disparities and poverty through balanced resource mobilization and effective public service delivery.

It also identifies economic reforms and private sector encouragement, construction of industrial infrastructure (such as in agriculture, energy, and information technology), development of social sectors like education and health, promotion of inclusion and social security, and enhancement of public service systems as priority areas.

Pun announced five government strategies for economic reforms including structural reforms, improvement in the business environment, reforms in the public finance system, financial sector reforms, and reforms in public administration. He said a high-level task force will be established to provide recommendations to the government for structural reforms of the economy.

The financial plan for the upcoming fiscal year also pledges introduction of favorable policies, complete country rating, and elimination of dual taxation to create a business-friendly environment in the country.

Rs 567bn for subnational governments

The federal government is set to allocate Rs 567bn to the provincial and local governments in the upcoming financial year 2024/25. According to Pun, based on the recommendation of the National Natural Resources and Fiscal Commission (NNRFC), the federal government has earmarked Rs 60bn for the provinces and Rs 88bn for the local level toward fiscal equalization grants.

A conditional grant worth Rs 25.84bn has been allocated for the provinces and Rs 28.88bn for the local level. Additionally, Rs 6.2bn has been allocated to the provinces and Rs 7bn to the local level as supplementary grants. Similarly, Rs 4.4bn has been allocated for the provinces and Rs 8.5bn for the local level as special grants.

Finance Minister Pun emphasized that arrangements will be made to transfer conditional, supplementary, and special grants based on performance. The government estimates that Rs 159bn will be transferred to the provincial and local levels as part of revenue sharing.

Tourism promotion

The government has allocated a budget of Rs 11.91bn to the tourism sector, with Pun emphasizing that the tourism sector will be given priority in the upcoming fiscal year.

The government aims to attract 1.6m tourists in the next financial year. Pun mentioned that tourism services will be provided through a one-door system. He said that there will be targeted programs to promote tourism in neighboring countries such as China and India.

He also announced the government plans to build ‘eco-hill stations’ at major tourist destinations from Chure to the Himalayas. Infrastructure projects, including the Great Himalayan Trail, Mundum Trail, and Guerrilla Trail, will also be developed.

The government will allocate a separate budget to reduce risks in the tourism sector. Additionally, May 29 will be celebrated as Sagarmatha Day, honoring local and foreign citizens involved in promoting Nepal’s tourism sector.

Triangle project​​​​​​​

The government has unveiled plans to implement the Gandaki Economic Triangle Project, connecting Bharatpur, Pokhara, and Butwal. Pun emphasized that this project would serve as a model development initiative, adhering to the principles of integrated development. Industrial revitalization and the creation of quality employment opportunities will be fostered through the establishment of an industrial ecosystem in collaboration with the private sector.

According to the budget, the expansion of the Narayangadh-Butwal and Muglin-Pokhara road sections, currently under construction, will be completed within the upcoming fiscal year. Finance Minister Pun stated that the Butwal-Pokhara road will be widened into a dedicated two-lane route, and a comprehensive transportation network will be developed to support industrial growth along the three corridors of the triangle.

Under this project, the Narayangadh-Butwal road section will be developed as a hub for construction materials and heavy industries, the Muglin-Pokhara section as a center for agriculture and food processing industries, and the Pokhara-Butwal section as a hub for electronic equipment, footwear, clothing, carpets, and domestic goods and services ​​​​​​​industries.

A budget of Rs 2m has been allocated for the implementation of this project, which aims to establish it as a model initiative through public-private partnership. Additionally, the budget outlines plans to develop the areas surrounding the east-west highway from Nijgadh to Dhalkebar as the Nepali carpet corridor, with provisions for public agencies to procure such carpets.

Hydropower expansion​​​​​​​

The government has set a target to enhance the capacity of the national grid to 4,500 megawatts by the upcoming fiscal year. It anticipates increasing the per capita consumption of electricity from 380 kilowatts to 450 kilowatts. 

Additionally, the government aims to begin exporting Nepal’s electricity to Bangladesh, expanding beyond the current export to India.

The promotion of reservoir-based projects has been prioritized to meet power demands during winter, with plans to implement the construction of the 1200 megawatts Budhigandaki Hydroelectricity Project. The government also plans to develop the 625 megawatts Dudhkoshi, 417 megawatts Nalgadh, and the 280 megawatts Naumure projects are also on the cards.

Further, the government plans to launch the development of the 77.5 megawatts Ghunsha Khola and 70.3 megawatts Simbua Khola hydroelectricity projects, securing investments from Nepalis in foreign employment.

Under the People’s Hydroelectricity Program, construction is slated to commence for the 106 megawatts Jagadulla, 99.9 megawatts Tamakoshi V, and 210 megawatts Chainpur Seti Hydroelectricity Project. Moreover, plans include determining the investment framework for the Sunkoshi III Hydropower Project and conducting a feasibility study for the 10,800 megawatts Karnali Chisapani Hydropower Project. 

The government has set a goal of promoting clean and renewable energy to replace traditional energy sources, aiming for zero carbon emissions by 2045. It plans to encourage the production, storage, and use of green hydrogen, while also concluding the construction of the Dhalkebar-Inaruwa and Barhabise-Khimti-Lapsifedi transmission lines within the next fiscal year.

Initiatives are also in place to initiate the construction of the Seti Corridor, Bheri Corridor, and Budhigandaki Corridor Transmission Lines, as well as concluding the construction of the New Butwal-Gorakhpur Transnational Line. 

Additionally, budgets are allocated for the construction of the Inaruwa-Poornia and Dododhara-Bareli Transmission Lines. Finance Minister Pun informed the house that the government has allocated a budget of Rs 50.7bn to the energy sector in the upcoming fiscal year.

Agriculture investment decade​​​​​​​

The government has announced a ‘decade of investment in agriculture’ for the development of the agricultural sector from 2024 to 2034. Finance Minister Pun said that special areas will be designated based on geography, market potential, and agricultural produce. 

“The government will promote contract farming in collaboration with farmers and businesspeople,” he said, adding that those who process and export agricultural produce will receive loan interest subsidies, grants, and fertilizer seeds based on their production.

The budget also states that those engaged in commercial farming and animal husbandry will receive tax exemptions on the purchase of machinery and spare parts, as well as interest subsidies on loans.

Employment bank​​​​​​​

The government has announced its intention to establish an employment bank. It has been mentioned that this bank will compile integrated records of employment-related information. The budget also highlights the integration of employment and labor market demands into an automated system. Additionally, the budget outlines plans for conducting employment programs.

The Prime Minister Employment Program will continue, with provisions for engaging the unemployed listed at the local level in public maintenance work. Approximately 200,000 individuals will be provided employment for a minimum of 100 days through this program.

Pun announced that orientation training provided to individuals before foreign employment will be made free of charge. 

Finance Minister Pun said that labor contracts will be signed with three additional destination countries starting from the fiscal year 2024/25. He added that emphasis will be placed on sending skilled workers.

Pun also mentioned that the scope of benefits from the welfare fund for dependent families of workers engaged in foreign employment will be expanded.

Budget for roads​​​​​​​

The government has expressed its commitment to expedite the construction of highways in the next fiscal year, although the budget allocation for this purpose is comparatively lower. 

A sum of Rs 29.88bn has been allocated for the expansion of the East-West highway, while Rs 22.54bn has been earmarked for the Kathmandu-Tarai Fast Track project. Regarding the latter, it has been stated that the construction of Mahadebtar, Dhedre, and Lendanda tunnels will be completed in 2024/25, along with an accelerated pace for the construction of 57 bridges.

Furthermore, Rs 3.64bn has been allocated for the Madhya Pahadi Lokmarga, which will facilitate the construction of 75 kilometers of blacktoppings and 10 bridges under this allocation. Additionally, Rs 4.4bn has been set aside for the development of the Koshi, Kaligandaki, and Karnali corridors.

Stadiums in national pride project​​​​​​​

The government has allocated a budget of Rs 3.5bn for the Ministry of Youth and Sports. Pun announced that Rs 1.3bn has been earmarked solely for the development of infrastructure in the sports sector. He also revealed plans to organize 80 national-level sports events in the next financial year.

“The standard of TU cricket ground will be improved, and Gautam Buddha Stadium will be constructed in cooperation with the provincial and local levels,” Pun said. 

Additionally, projects to enhance Mulpani Stadium in Kathmandu and Girija Prasad Stadium in Biratnagar will be promoted as national pride initiatives. 

Pun disclosed that Rs 600m has been allocated to organize the Tenth National Games in Surkhet. Furthermore, he emphasized that teachers will receive sports training and sports promotion activities will be conducted in schools. 

Training for media workers​​​​​​​

Minister Pun has said that complete freedom of the press will be guaranteed while ensuring the right of citizens to be well informed. By making the mass media sector fair, competitive, and inclusive, he said arrangements will be made for the timely communication of news of public importance. 

Training programs to increase the capacity of media workers have also been introduced in the budget. The government also plans to regulate advertising through digital platforms. 

A budget of Rs 7bn has been allocated to the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology to implement these plans.

Key takeaways from budget​​​​​​​

• Six percent economic growth, 5.5 percent inflation forecast
• Rs 1.5bn for the program of Nepali Army bunkers and barracks
• Rs 5.63bn for the construction of tunnels, intersections and flyovers
• Abolition of additional tax on potatoes, onions and apples
• Rs 2.46bn to build ‘signature bridge’ on Narayani and Tinau river
• Compulsory issue of shares will be made to companies with more than certain capital
• A sovereign wealth fund will be established from remittances
• Rs 1.16trn for social security allowances
• College in the memory of late Sita Dahal, wife of Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal
• Rs 170m budget to establish knowledge park

Stakeholders have expressed their concerns over the growing adverse effects of climate change on the Himalayas and called for urgent action to mitigate these impacts. Drawing the international community’s attention to this issue, they emphasized the need to reduce the effects of climate change on the region. They were speaking at the ‘International Dialogue on Mountains, People and Climate’, which began on Wednesday in Kathmandu.

In the opening ceremony of the dialogue hosted by Nepal, Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal emphasized the urgent need for a unified mountain voice to address the escalating concerns about 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,” he said.

Dahal also highlighted the necessity of economic and technical cooperation for countries most affected by climate change. He noted that the impact of climate change on mountains is unprecedented and that mountainous countries, being on the front lines of the global climate crisis, are disproportionately burdened by its adverse effects. He called for collective resolve to address this pressing issue.

Chief Secretary of the Government of Nepal, Dr Baikuntha Aryal, pointed out that climate change is causing snow and glaciers in the mountains to melt rapidly, transforming snow-capped peaks into bare rocks. He stressed the need for awareness of these adverse effects. “Last year’s international conference on climate change, COP28, also discussed the impact of climate change on the Himalayan region. We have succeeded in having this dialogue,” he said.

Aryal added that the mountains provide clean drinking water to 80 percent of the people living in these regions, emphasizing the necessity of protecting these vital water sources.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Narayan Kaji Shrestha, advocated for the protection of the earth by addressing the issues caused by climate change. He noted that the Himalayas are particularly affected, with melting snow posing significant problems, and emphasized the need for joint efforts to mitigate these challenges.

Shrestha said that climate change will continue to negatively impact mountainous countries like Nepal. He stressed the importance of awareness about these adverse effects and the necessity of limiting the global temperature increase to 1.5 degrees Celsius to prevent the rapid escalation of climate-related problems.

Secretary of the Ministry of Forests and Environment, Govinda Prasad Sharma, pointed out the risks faced by people in mountainous regions due to climate change. “Climate change is having an adverse effect on mountainous areas. Problems such as forest fires, melting snow, glacial lake outburst floods, and rising sea levels are increasing due to temperature rise,” he said. “The mountains and mountainous areas are at high risk due to the effects of climate change. It is necessary for everyone to pay attention in time to save the mountainous region from this crisis.”

Karen Welch, director of USAID, mentioned their ongoing partnership in biodiversity conservation and environmental protection in Nepal, and assured the continuation of this collaboration in the future.

Rosalaura Romeo of the Mountain Partnership Secretariat of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) stated that experience exchange programs are crucial for addressing the challenges faced by mountain countries. She noted that scientific data on the impact of climate change in the Himalayan region has been established.

The special representative of Kyrgyzstan, Dinara Kemelova, highlighted that the world’s mountains are home to 30 percent of the global population and called for collective efforts to protect them. She emphasized the global importance of mountains as sources of clean drinking water and hydroelectric power.

Hanna Singer Hamdy, the resident coordinator of the United Nations in Nepal, underscored the adverse impact of climate change on the Himalayas and its inhabitants. She stressed the need for cooperation to protect the Himalayas.

Bangladesh’s Minister for Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, Saber Hossain Chowdhury, expressed concern that Bangladesh’s very existence might be threatened by the melting of snow in the Nepal Himalayas due to climate change. He explained that rapid snow melting in the Himalayas could lead to flooding and other problems in Bangladesh. The minister emphasized the urgency of adopting timely measures and maintaining alertness to mitigate the impact of climate change. He also stressed the importance of minimizing climate change impacts and enhancing adaptation efforts to secure climate resilience.

Chair of the UN Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA), Harry Vireau, highlighted that disasters such as floods and landslides are increasingly occurring due to the effects of climate change. He emphasized the need for collective solutions to address these impacts.

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

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

On the eve of the International Expert Dialogue on Mountains, People, and Climate Change, the Ministry of Forest and Environment (MoFE) held a consultation meeting with a media group to provide updates about the event. Nepal will host the event on May 22 and 23 in Chandragiri, Kathmandu, aiming to bring international attention to this critical issue under its leadership.

The two-day event will feature experts from 25 countries, focusing on enhancing coordination and prioritizing mountain-centric initiatives within the broader climate change agenda.

The dialogue aims to foster collaboration among mountainous countries and stakeholders involved in the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) programs. It also seeks to develop concrete roadmaps and strategies for mountain regions in preparation for the 60th session of the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) and beyond. The SBSTA meeting, scheduled for June, will include an expert dialogue on mountains, humans, and climate change.

The event will bring together over 200 representatives from mountainous countries, island nations, international organizations, development partners, NGOs, the private sector, and civil society groups. The chairpersons of the UNFCCC Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) and SBSTA, as well as representatives from the UNFCCC Secretariat, UN agencies, the World Bank, and the Asian Development Bank will also attend the discussions. 

The dialogue aims to facilitate collective insights and conclusions, which will be incorporated into the SBSTA expert dialogue, including Nepal’s initiative on Sagarmatha Sambad.

Maheshwar Dhakal, joint secretary at MoFE, told the media that the objective of this dialogue is to prioritize and strengthen efforts related to mountain ecosystem-based climate resilience in a coordinated manner. He emphasized that the dialogue aims to enhance the negotiating capacity of mountainous countries on climate change issues and to pressure the international community to mobilize necessary resources for climate adaptation and mitigation.

“The frequency of climate change incidents is increasing day by day, particularly in mountainous and hilly regions. Therefore, this dialogue will also be instrumental in raising a stronger institutional voice,” he said.

Buddi Sagar Poudel, joint secretary and chief of the Climate Change Management Division at MoFE, said the event will enhance the understanding of climate change impacts in the Himalayan region and their solutions. 

“Our conclusion is that this Dialogue will integrate expertise and experiences on the topic and develop a mountain climate resilience strategy along with a common resolve,” he told ApEx.

He added that Nepal is committed to including the mountain agenda in every aspect of the SBSTA dialogue to increase visibility for its climate initiatives. “In areas such as loss and damage, climate justice, climate finance, and climate technology, we will incorporate the mountain agenda,” he added.

Mountains are invaluable natural assets, supporting 25 percent of the world’s terrestrial biodiversity and encompassing nearly half of the world’s biodiversity hotspots. However, mountain glaciers are rapidly melting due to rising temperatures associated with climate change. This melting contributes to glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs) and sea-level rise, and threatens freshwater supplies for millions who depend on glacier-fed rivers. With gradual changes in temperature and rainfall patterns, extreme and slow-onset climate-related hazards such as GLOFs, landslides, and flash floods are increasing. Approximately 40 percent of the world’s population indirectly relies on mountain resources for drinking water, agriculture, biodiversity, and hydroelectricity.

Govinda Prasad Sharma, Secretary at MoFE says the presence of the SBSTA chair in the dialogue shows the commitment of mountain issues at the global climate negotiations.

Despite their significance and the threats they face, mountains still do not receive adequate attention and recognition in global forums. The global community has severely neglected the value of the vital ecosystem services provided by mountains. It is now critical to prioritize mountain areas in all global action plans. A unified mountain voice is urgently needed to address the growing concerns about the effects of climate change on mountain communities and the essential ecosystem services they provide.

Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal is scheduled to inaugurate the dialogue, which will feature opening and closing plenary sessions, along with thematic discussions focused on three main areas. These will include 10 sessions. First, climate science and mountain evidence, second, mountain solutions: common grounds and common understanding, third, mountain prospective: resources and opportunities. Each session will have the keynote speaker, presentation and the panel discussion and over 50+ global speakers will be making the deliberation.

The themes will examine the evidence of climate change impacts, vulnerabilities, and risks in mountainous regions, as well as emerging threats and the need for action both within and beyond mountain environments. It will also explore community-driven adaptation, sustainable policy frameworks, and the importance of climate justice and local perspectives. Also, it will highlight the potential for economic growth in mountain regions through transitions to cleaner energy sources, the mobilization of climate finance, and the promotion of global cooperation and regional partnerships.

The event also aims to minimize the loss caused by climate change in mountain communities’ lives and livelihoods by promoting adaptation measures, clean energy, innovation, and research. It will emphasize capacity enhancement for mountain communities and the promotion of multi-party cooperation and partnership on climate change finance.

Mountain regions support over 15 percent of the world’s population by providing essential resources such as food, shelter, and clothing, and serve as habitats for over 15 percent of wildlife, including various plant species. However, mountain countries have not reaped the expected benefits because they either have not effectively raised their issues and concerns in international forums or have not received adequate international recognition.

As a mountainous nation, Nepal has long advocated in international forums about the impacts of climate change on the Himalayas. Due to these efforts, the UN Conference on Climate Change (COP28) last year included, for the first time, the impact of climate change on the Himalayas in its decision-making and has since emphasized effective measures to mitigate this impact. It was a crucial milestone in recognizing the impacts of climate change on mountainous regions worldwide and laying the groundwork for further action.

Ever since the 2009 Copenhagen Climate Conference (COP15), the impact of climate change on the Himalayan ecosystem has increasingly drawn global attention. Despite Nepal’s persistent efforts to prioritize this issue in subsequent conferences, relatively little progress has been achieved.

The government have been highlighting the impacts of climate change on the mountains and their communities through various initiatives, including cabinet meetings in Kalapathar in 2009, the 10-point Everest Declaration, calls for an alliance of mountain countries in 2009, the Mountain Initiative, the Mountain Advocacy Summit in 2022, as well as numerous conferences, policy dialogues, and declarations focused on mountain actions.

Ahead of and during the COP 28 in Dubai, high-level government officials, including Prime Minister Dahal, emphasized that developed countries' pledges and actions do not align and called for them to raise their ambitions and urgently fulfill their commitments. They urged developed countries to increase climate finance to address the $100bn shortfall, double adaptation finance by 2025, and ensure fair financial arrangements without conditions, constraints, and compliances.

As the chair of the Least Developed Countries (LDCs) group, Nepal also demanded that the loss and damage fund be predictable, simplified, and adequate for LDCs and mountainous countries. One of the major achievements of the Dubai climate summit was the launch of the loss and damage fund, which aims to provide crucial support to vulnerable nations facing the brunt of climate-related challenges.

This Saturday, May 19, marks the completion of 11 years of Bagmati Cleanup Mega Campaign. Initiated with the simple yet powerful concept of encouraging people to volunteer for at least two hours every Saturday morning to clean the Bagmati river, the campaign has evolved into a movement of sorts, thanks to the dedication and commitment of countless individuals who have tirelessly contributed their time and effort to this cause. The impact of this initiative has transcended its original scope, inspiring similar clean-up drives not across the country. 

Leela Mani Paudyal, former chief secretary of the Nepal government and former Nepali ambassador to China, is one of the campaigners of this cause. He has been actively involved in the campaign since its inception. In an interview with Pratik Ghimire of ApEx, Paudyal shares his insights into the various facets of the campaign, shedding light on its journey, challenges, achievements, and future endeavors.

The Bagmati Cleanup Mega Campaign has now completed its 11th year, spanning an impressive 575 weeks. Let’s delve into the inception of this remarkable initiative.

Before the start of the Bagmati Cleanup Mega Campaign on 19 May 2013, several efforts were made to clean the Bagmati river, but unfortunately, none of them sustained continuity. Despite the government’s plan to mobilize 1m volunteers annually for various tasks, including the Bagmati Cleaning Campaign, it struggled to maintain momentum. However, the landscape changed when a coalition of individuals and organizations, such as the Gayatri family, ESGS, Arjun Dharel of Ace Travels, the Advertising Association, and the Artist Association, approached me with a proposal to bring 500 volunteers from India to assist in the Bagmati cleanup effort.

However, I found it uncomfortable to mobilize Indian volunteers to address the pollution issues plaguing our river, which we, as Nepalis, had contributed to. It became clear to me that it was our duty to rectify the damage we had caused. Subsequently, I engaged with the Secretary of the Urban Development Ministry and initiated the mega campaign, coinciding with the Ministry’s foundation day on May 19. Although the campaign was initiated by the government, we opted to continue it on a voluntary basis, maintaining its momentum and spirit to this day.

I must highlight the invaluable contribution of Arjun Dharel, who generously shouldered the promotional and advertising aspects of the campaign at his own expense, as part of his company’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) efforts. Numerous other individuals and organizations have played crucial roles in sustaining and advancing this campaign by making it huge each day.

Do you believe that involving the younger generation in the campaign will enhance its sustainability and ensure its continuation for many more years?

The Bagmati Cleanup Mega Campaign operates solely on the spirit of voluntarism, devoid of any formal committees or leadership structures. There are no financial donations collected, nor are there any associated bank accounts. This campaign is driven entirely by volunteers, with no designated leaders; rather, each participant assumes personal responsibility for the task of cleaning the Bagmati river.

Although there is no formal leadership, those who were heavily involved in the campaign from its inception and continue to participate regularly convene weekly. During these meetings, we used to review the progress of the previous week’s efforts and strategize on how to mobilize volunteers for the upcoming week as with each passing week, more individuals and organizations joined the cause, contributing to the campaign’s momentum and impact.

Involving the younger generation in the campaign will indeed significantly enhance its sustainability and longevity. We have actively worked to encourage their participation by promoting the campaign in schools, colleges, and universities. Many young people have responded positively and joined the mega campaign. From the outset, we have maintained an open invitation policy, welcoming as many individuals as possible to join our cause. Despite the absence of formal leadership, we are more than willing to hand over the reins to the youth, empowering them to lead and drive the campaign forward.

How far has the campaign come in these 11 years?

Many people believe that our efforts have solely focused on collecting waste from the river, but that is not the case. In addition to removing approximately 20,000 metric tons of waste, we have also contributed to the revitalization of the Bagmati river corridor by planting over 6,000 trees. Furthermore, parks and walking pavements have been constructed along the riverbank, with various organizations taking the lead on these initiatives. For instance, Sankha Park was built by the Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA). We have organized many promotional campaigns to invite people to join the campaign by organizing poem, essay and photo competitions. 

Moreover, the impact of the Bagmati campaign has extended beyond its immediate surroundings. Inspired by our initiative, numerous cleaning campaigns have been initiated across the nation. While we initially spearheaded these efforts, local communities have since taken ownership and continued the work to this day.

It would be unjust to claim sole credit for the success of this campaign. It has been achieved through the tireless efforts of thousands of campaigners, even in my absence. This collective dedication and hard work have been the driving force behind our progress.

The High Powered Committee for the Integrated Development of the Bagmati Civilization (HPCIDBC) receives budget allocations annually, yet significant progress has been lacking. Additionally, there have been accusations of irregular activities. What are your thoughts on this matter?

According to reports, the HPCIDBC has spent approximately Rs 20bn thus far. Initially established with the purpose of improving the sewerage system, it has made some progress in building this infrastructure. However, there have been challenges in effectively collecting sewage within the system, resulting in untreated sewage being directly discharged into the river.

Since the inception of the project, we had raised concerns about the technical feasibility of extending the sewerage system along the two lanes of the entire 27-kilometer stretch of the Bagmati river in Kathmandu valley. Such an undertaking would entail massive infrastructure development and pose difficulties in collecting sewage from across the valley to a single point. Instead, we had suggested that the HPCIDBC focus on constructing sewage collection and treatment facilities at shorter intervals, perhaps every two to three kilometers. However, the committee has allocated significant funds to large-scale projects that appear to lack viability. I continue to emphasize that the primary responsibility of the HPCIDBC should be the improvement of the sewerage system. The government should task it solely with this responsibility, rather than involving it in beautification and other projects. 

It is disheartening to see that the HPCIDBC has transformed the Bagmati river into what resembles more of a canal, primarily due to the construction of walls along both sides of the river. This alteration not only disrupts the natural flow and ecology of the river but also diminishes its aesthetic and recreational value.

Regarding the allegations of irregular activities, while I cannot personally guarantee their veracity, given the rumors surrounding them, it is imperative that the government’s investigative institutions thoroughly examine the matter.

Where do you envision in the next 12 years of Bagmati Cleanup Mega Campaign?

In the coming years, we are poised to expand the mega campaign beyond solely cleaning the Bagmati river; it will evolve into a volunteer-driven initiative dedicated to preserving our heritage as well. Over the next 12 years, we anticipate a growing network of individuals and organizations rallying behind this cause. Alongside, we’ll witness the influx of younger generations, bringing with them fresh ideas and innovative approaches to the campaign.

I extend an earnest invitation to everyone to join this movement because, as the saying goes, ‘If you are not part of the solution, you are part of the problem’. This campaign is not bound by finite start and end dates; rather, it is a continuous effort with ever-expanding goals.

Furthermore, I urge individuals to adhere to the 5R rule—Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Repurpose, Recycle—as a guiding principle for waste management. By embracing these practices, we can collectively contribute to a cleaner and more sustainable environment for ourselves and future generations.