Nepal’s Prime Minister Balendra “Balen” Shah has urged for the creation of a Himalayan Climate Resilience Mechanism in collaboration with India and China, aiming to tackle the escalating climate risks in the Himalayan region. Speaking at the 81st United Nations General Assembly, Shah emphasized the critical role of the Hindu Kush Himalayan region, which supports nearly two billion people through its water resources, ecosystems, agriculture, and livelihoods.
Shah highlighted the alarming impact of rising temperatures, which are heightening the threat of glacier-related disasters, floods, and landslides. To address these challenges, the proposed mechanism would involve the sharing of satellite data and technical expertise among Nepal, India, and China, monitoring hazardous glacial lakes, enhancing joint early-warning systems, and coordinating cross-border assistance during emergencies. According to Shah, increased regional cooperation could significantly boost preparedness for climate-related emergencies.
The call for this mechanism comes in the aftermath of devastating floods in Nepal’s Himalayan territory, which resulted in widespread destruction and significant loss of life. Shah pointed to this disaster as a stark reminder of the urgent need for stronger climate resilience measures and international collaboration.
In addition to proposing the resilience mechanism, Shah appealed for enhanced support for Nepal’s recovery and reconstruction efforts post-floods. He expressed gratitude to India, China, and other countries for their assistance following the disaster, underscoring the importance of continued international support in addressing the region’s climate challenges.