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الوسم: Nepal

  • Nepal’s New PM Promises to Tackle Corruption Amid Protests

    Nepal’s New PM Promises to Tackle Corruption Amid Protests

    Nepal’s acting leader, Sushila Karki, is examining a police station that has been set ablaze. — AFP

    – Nepal’s Prime Minister was chosen through a Discord app.
    – Over 12,000 inmates have escaped from jail.
    – Regional authorities extend their congratulations to Sushila Karki.

    —

    Nepal’s newly appointed interim Prime Minister has committed to addressing protesters’ calls to “end corruption” as she starts her term following a youth-led uprising that ousted her predecessor. Sushila Karki, 73 and a former Chief Justice, has the responsibility of restoring stability and tackling the protesters’ demands for clean governance, all ahead of national elections scheduled in six months.

    The protests erupted on Monday after a social media ban, intensifying rapidly — resulting in the burning of parliament and major government buildings, driven by deep-rooted economic issues in Nepal.

    “We must work with the mindset of the Generation Z youth,” Karki stated publicly for the first time since assuming office on Friday.

    According to the World Bank, about 20% of Nepali youth aged 15 to 24 are unemployed, and the country’s GDP per capita is only $1,447.

    “What this generation is demanding includes ending corruption, transparent governance, and economic equality,” she added. “It’s up to us all to be determined to make that a reality.”

    —

    Karki observed a moment of silence on Sunday for those who lost their lives amid the unrest before convening meetings at Singha Durbar, a key government complex where several buildings were torched during recent mass protests.

    At least 72 people have died in just two days of violence, according to government chief secretary Eaknarayan Aryal, raising the death toll from an earlier 51.

    This marks Nepal’s most severe unrest since the conclusion of a decade-long civil war and the abolition of its monarchy in 2008.

    Karki’s appointment, recognized for her independence, came after intensive negotiations between army chief General Ashok Raj Sigdel, President Ram Chandra Paudel, and youth leaders collectively known as “Gen Z,” who initiated the protests via Discord.

    Thousands of young activists identified Karki as their preferred leader through social media.

    “I didn’t wish to step into this role; my name was called from the streets,” Karki remarked.

    Parliament has been dissolved, with elections scheduled for March 5, 2026.

    “We won’t remain here more than six months, no matter the circumstances; we will carry out our duties and transfer power to the next elected parliament and ministers,” she assured the nation.

    —

    Despite efforts to establish stability, the situation remains tense. A new sign for the Prime Minister’s Office has been installed within the complex, which was not targeted during the violence.

    Late Saturday, President Paudel, who swore in Karki, described finding a “peaceful solution after a challenging process.”

    He characterized the current circumstances as “very complex and serious,” urging the public to help ensure the success of the upcoming elections.

    Military presence on the streets has been reduced from its peak during the protests, but the security challenge persists, especially with over 12,500 inmates still at large following jail breaks.

    International reactions have been supportive: India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed backing for “peace, progress, and prosperity” in Nepal, while China’s foreign ministry emphasized its intent to “steadily advance China-Nepal relations.”

    Buddhism, the second-largest religion in Nepal, was also acknowledged; the Dalai Lama offered his wishes for Karki’s success in meeting the hopes and aspirations of the Nepalese people during these turbulent times.

  • Nepali Protesters Hope Deaths Will Spark Change

    Nepali Protesters Hope Deaths Will Spark Change

    Relatives of those lost in Nepal’s anti-corruption protests expressed hope that their loved ones’ sacrifices wouldn’t be in vain, as the interim prime minister officially assumed office on Saturday. Among the victims was 30-year-old Santosh Bishwakarma, one of at least 51 fatalities during two days of unrest— the most severe violence since Nepal’s civil war ended and the monarchy was dissolved in 2008. His widow, Amika, also 30, with tears in her eyes, remembered his “ultimate goal” to “die knowing he had contributed to the country.” Santosh was shot on Monday amid the initial wave of protests led by the youth-led “Gen Z” movement.

    The protests were sparked by a temporary social media ban, which intensified long-standing frustrations over corruption and economic struggles, transforming into broader outrage. “He used to say he wouldn’t die like a dog,” Amika shared in her modest Kathmandu home, holding a framed photo of her late husband. “His dream was to make Nepal known worldwide—and he achieved that.”

    KP Sharma Oli, the 73-year-old leader of the Communist Party, stepped down as prime minister a day after Santosh’s death and amid protests that saw the parliament set ablaze, ending his fourth term. On Friday, former Supreme Court Justice Sushila Karki was sworn in to lead a six-month transition toward new elections. Thousands of young activists debated their next moves through Discord and selected Karki as their preferred leader.

    Now raising her 10-year-old Ujwal and 7-year-old Sonia on her own, Amika worries about the future. “My husband would have done everything to fulfill their dreams, even if it meant risking his life,” she said. “But how am I supposed to manage everything alone? He gave his life for our country, and I hope the new government will support us.”

    Family friend Solan Rai, 42, believes this unrest represents a turning point. “I hope this time we will see real change,” he said, noting that the anger has been “more intense than anything we’ve seen before.” The World Bank reports that a staggering 82% of Nepal’s workforce is employed informally—one of the highest rates globally—and the country’s GDP per capita is just $1,447.

    At Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu on Friday, hundreds gathered for mass cremations. Families mourned loved ones, including young men shot in the clashes. “I hope there will be justice—and that our people finally get the change they desperately need,” said Ratna Maharjan, mourning her son, tears streaming down her face. One mother refused to release her son’s body, wrapped in a shroud and holding onto him on the temple steps. Nearby, police officers laid marigold garlands on fallen colleagues as a bugler played over the smoke-filled riverbank.

    Amika’s plea was simple: “All we want is equality—so the wealthy can’t thrive while the poor suffer.”

  • Viral Clip: Fiery Schoolboy Speech Sparks Nepal Regime Change

    Viral Clip: Fiery Schoolboy Speech Sparks Nepal Regime Change

    Head boy, Ora, is delivering speech in school’s annual function in March 2025— screenshot X.

    A vintage clip of a Nepali schoolboy’s fiery speech against corruption and unemployment has reemerged online, attracting renewed attention amid ongoing protests in the country.

    The video shows Ora, a young student, passionately calling for a stronger nation to secure the future of youth. It was reportedly recorded six months ago during a school’s annual event, where head boy Ora highlighted the worsening situation caused by corruption, unemployment, and other issues created by authorities.

    “Nepal, our mother nation, gave us life and nurtured us. But what did it ask in return? Only our honesty, hard work, and contributions,” he said, emphasizing, “What are we doing? We are shackled by unemployment, fleeing abroad in search of opportunities, caught in the selfish games of political parties. Youth, rise up—if we don’t speak out, who will?”

    “We are the fire that dispels darkness, the storm that will sweep away injustice and bring prosperity. Nepal belongs to us, and its future is in our hands.”

    The video gained viral traction on social media when Nepal was experiencing a Generation Z-led revolution, following protests on digital platforms that led to the resignation of former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and the collapse of his government last week.

    Last week, Oli’s administration imposed a social media blackout, blocking access to several platforms, citing failure to register with the government.

    Critics argued the move was an attempt to suppress free speech. The government denied this, claiming that social media was being misused to spread false information and commit fraud, among other concerns.


  • Nepal Announces March Elections Following Interim Prime Minister Appointment

    Nepal Announces March Elections Following Interim Prime Minister Appointment

    Nepal’s President Ramchandra Paudel announced the dissolution of the parliament and scheduled new elections for March 5, 2026, following a week marked by deadly violence. The unrest reached a turning point when the country appointed its first female interim prime minister, Sushila Karki, after Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli resigned amid anti-corruption protests.

    The president’s decision was made shortly after Karki’s appointment, which came after intense negotiations involving Paudel, military leader Ashok Raj Sigdel, and protest organizers responsible for Nepal’s most significant upheaval in years, resulting in at least 51 deaths and over 1,300 injuries.

    India expressed hope that these political developments would promote peace and stability in Nepal. Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended congratulations to Sushila Karki on her new role, emphasizing India’s commitment to Nepal’s progress and prosperity.

    The protests initially erupted over a social media ban, which was eventually lifted, leading to a reduction in violence following Oli’s resignation. Since abolishing the monarchy in 2008, Nepal has been battling political and economic instability, with high unemployment pushing many young people to seek work abroad in regions like the Middle East, South Korea, and Malaysia.

    Today, stability is gradually returning with reopened shops, resumed traffic, and police replacing guns with batons. The nation of 30 million, nestled between China and India, is inching toward normalcy as political upheaval subsides.

  • Former Chief Justice Karki becomes Nepal’s first female leader amid unrest

    Former Chief Justice Karki becomes Nepal’s first female leader amid unrest

    Nepal’s former Chief Justice Sushila Karki is set to become the country’s first female interim leader. She will be sworn in later on Friday after Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli resigned due to violent anti-corruption protests, according to the president’s office.

    The announcement came following talks between President Ramchandra Paudel, Army Chief Ashok Raj Sigdel, and protest leaders, who organized Nepal’s most significant unrest in years. This week, anti-graft demonstrations by the “Gen Z” movement—named for the age group of most supporters—resulted in 51 deaths and over 1,300 injuries. The protests started after a social media ban, which has since been lifted, and violence only eased after Oli stepped down on Tuesday.

    Karki, who is 73, is scheduled to take her oath at 9:15 p.m. local time. Reports indicate that two other ministers will also be sworn in alongside her. She is highly regarded for her honesty and integrity, with supporters, including protesters, favoring her as a figure who staunchly opposes corruption. Karki previously held the top judicial role for approximately a year until mid-2017.

    Nepal has faced ongoing political and economic instability since abolishing its monarchy in 2008. With a population of 30 million, many Nepalis seek work abroad to support their families, contributing significantly through remittances.

    On Friday, the country was gradually returning to normal. Shops reopened, vehicles returned to the streets, and police replaced their earlier weapons with batons. Families began reclaiming the bodies of those killed during the protests. Some roads remain blocked, but the military presence has decreased.

    Karuna Budhathoki, waiting at Kathmandu’s Teaching Hospital to retrieve her 23-year-old nephew’s body, explained, “While his friends backed off from the protests, he decided to go ahead. We were told he arrived dead.”

    Another young protester, Ashab Alam Thakurai, 24, who had married just a month prior, also died. His relatives recounted that he stayed involved in the protests even after they lost contact with him. His uncle, Zulfikar Alam, said, “The last time we spoke, he told us he was stuck in the protests. Then we found his body in the morgue.”

  • Nepal Parliament Secured by Soldiers Following Violent Protests

    Nepal Parliament Secured by Soldiers Following Violent Protests

    Clashes erupted in Kathmandu following the police killing of 19 protesters during anti-corruption demonstrations. A military convoy rolled past a charred vehicle near the Singha Durbar complex, which houses the Prime Minister’s office and other government offices, as tensions escalated on September 10, 2025, with protests turning violent. The city’s airport has been shut down until Wednesday evening, while nationwide prohibitory orders remain in effect through Thursday. Authorities, including the military, are working together to manage the situation.

    Nepal’s parliament was heavily guarded by armed troops amid deserted streets after the implementation of an indefinite curfew. The violence was triggered by a social media ban, which was eventually rescinded, but not before deadly clashes resulted in multiple casualties and extensive damage. Several government buildings, including courts and ministers’ residences, were torched during Tuesday’s unrest. A woman, Rajyalaxmi Chitrakar, the wife of a former prime minister, died after her home was allegedly set ablaze by protesters.

    Military spokesman Raja Ram Basnet emphasized efforts to restore calm, stating, “Our priority is to protect lives and property.” Despite the tense atmosphere, shops and markets have remained closed, with army vehicles patrolling quiet streets.

    In response to the chaos, the army announced that prohibitory orders would stay in place until Thursday morning and indicated that discussions were underway between the government and protesters. Although details remain unclear, reports suggest that negotiations may be imminent. A former Supreme Court judge called for the dissolution of parliament and new elections, urging dialogue and the formation of a caretaker government.

    The protests primarily involve young people frustrated with the government’s perceived failure to tackle corruption and improve economic prospects. Decades of lack of employment have pushed millions to seek work abroad in countries like Malaysia, the Middle East, and South Korea, mainly in construction, to support their families.

    Nepal, situated between India and China, has faced ongoing political and economic instability since the monarchy was abolished in 2008. India’s security cabinet also convened to discuss the Nepal situation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi later issued a message on X, emphasizing the importance of stability, peace, and prosperity in Nepal, and called on all Nepalese to maintain order.

  • Ex-Nepal PM’s Wife Killed in Violence Amid Protest Chaos

    Ex-Nepal PM’s Wife Killed in Violence Amid Protest Chaos

    Protesters gathered outside the Parliament building in Kathmandu as smoke billowed from a fire they ignited during demonstrations over the recent killing of 19 people on Monday. The unrest erupted after anti-corruption protests, initially sparked by a social media ban that was later lifted, coincided with a curfew in the city.

    Nepalese media reported that Rajyalaxmi Chitrakar, the wife of ex-Prime Minister Jhalanath Khanal, was fatally injured in an attack on her home in Dallu. Family members say protesters forced their way inside before setting the house on fire. She was rushed to Kirtipur Burn Hospital in critical condition but died from her injuries, suffering severe burns on multiple parts of her body, including her lungs.

    This violence coincided with a second day of intense protests led primarily by Generation Z, fueled by accusations of corruption, high unemployment, and the government’s social media restrictions. Even after the ban was lifted late Monday, demonstrators continued torching buildings, which led to the closure of Kathmandu’s airport and prompted India to advise its citizens to stay indoors for safety.

    Footage circulating online showed fires destroying the Parliament building and residences of top leaders, including President Ram Chandra Paudel, Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, and former Prime Ministers Pushpa Kamal Dahal and Sher Bahadur Deuba. Reports also suggest that Finance Minister Bishnu Paudel was assaulted, though some footage cannot be independently verified.

    The previous day, at least 19 deaths occurred during protests—a crackdown considered among the deadliest in recent years, sparking widespread public outrage. In response, Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli resigned after consultations with the Nepal Army Chief. President Paudel, whose office was also targeted and set on fire, called on all parties to exercise restraint and prevent further damage.

    India echoed similar sentiments, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasizing that the stability, peace, and prosperity of Nepal are of critical importance to his country. The United Nations rights chief, Volker Turk, expressed shock at the violence and urged for dialogue, although these calls appeared to go unheeded.

    Reporters Without Borders (RSF) reported the burning of the Kantipur Media Group’s headquarters and urged protesters not to target journalists. The International Crisis Group described the incidents as a significant turning point in Nepal’s fragile democratic journey.

    Kathmandu’s airport remains operational, though some flights were canceled due to smoke affecting visibility, according to airport spokesperson Rinji Sherpa.

  • Nepal’s Anti-Corruption Protests Drive PM’s Resignation

    Nepal’s Anti-Corruption Protests Drive PM’s Resignation

    Nepal’s Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli announced his resignation on Tuesday, just hours after the country lifted a ban on social media that had fueled deadly anti-corruption protests. The violence erupted on Monday, resulting in the deaths of at least 19 individuals as security personnel used tear gas and rubber bullets to break up demonstrators.

    Here’s an overview of what unfolded:

    Protests Erupt Due to Social Media Restrictions
    The unrest was sparked when the Nepalese government blocked access to several social media platforms after these sites failed to meet a registration deadline with authorities. The government claimed the ban was necessary to combat the misuse of these platforms, citing concerns over fake accounts spreading hate, rumors, cybercrime, and social discord.

    Escalation into Violence
    Led mainly by young people, many clad in school and college uniforms, the protests—dubbed “demonstrations by Gen Z”—began in Kathmandu and rapidly spread across other cities. Authorities responded with water cannons, batons, and rubber bullets. Reports indicated some protesters forcefully entered the parliament complex, set an ambulance on fire, and launched objects at security forces. Protesters insisted they were unarmed, accusing security forces of firing indiscriminately.

    Government’s Response
    In a quick turnaround, the social media ban was lifted overnight, restoring access to all apps in Nepal. Prime Minister Oli resigned, citing the country’s “adverse situation” and stating his departure was meant to help negotiate a political solution in line with constitutional procedures.

    Current Situation on the Ground
    While protests continue in certain locations, no new violence has been reported following Oli’s resignation, as security forces have chosen not to disperse crowds. However, Kathmandu’s main airport remains closed, disrupting flight operations. The Nepalese military has called for restraint and peaceful dialogue to navigate the crisis.

    International Reactions
    Neighboring India expressed hope that all parties would exercise restraint and seek resolution through conversation. A joint statement from the embassies of Australia, Finland, France, Japan, South Korea, Britain, Norway, Germany, and the United States also urged maximum restraint and the protection of fundamental rights.

  • Nepal Prime Minister Oli Resigns Amid Rising Anti-Corruption Protests

    Nepal Prime Minister Oli Resigns Amid Rising Anti-Corruption Protests

    Nepal’s Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli resigned on Tuesday amid widespread protests sparked by a social media ban, which resulted in clashes between demonstrators and police. The protests turned violent, leaving 19 dead and over 100 injured when police used tear gas and rubber bullets to disperse crowds attempting to storm the parliament building. Following the violence, the government lifted the social media restrictions.

    The mounting unrest is the most severe in Nepal in decades, a nation nestled between India and China that has faced ongoing political instability and economic challenges since the monarchy was abolished in 2008. Oli’s resignation was confirmed by his aide, Prakash Silwal, signaling fresh political turmoil for the fragile country.

    Earlier in the day, Oli convened a meeting with political parties, emphasizing the need for peaceful dialogue to address issues and condemning violence. Still, protests persisted in Kathmandu, with demonstrators setting tires ablaze, throwing stones at police, and confronting officers in riot gear. Some protesters even set homes of politicians on fire, and reports indicated that the military had evacuated certain ministers from danger.

    Supporters of the protests, mainly young people frustrated with the government’s inability to combat corruption and improve economic prospects, gathered from nearby regions, marching toward the capital in solidarity. Witnesses reported the burning of political residences and the involvement of military helicopters in safety operations.

    The chaos has caused disruptions at Kathmandu’s main international airport, with limited visibility due to smoke from nearby fires, halting flight operations. Protest organizers have described these demonstrations as driven by Generation Z, highlighting the widespread dissatisfaction among Nepal’s youth.

    Throughout the day, various international embedded media and social media platforms have continually updated, showcasing the intensity of Nepal’s political crisis and the ongoing protests demanding change.

  • Nepal Ends Social Media Ban Following Deadly Protests, Minister Confirms

    Nepal Ends Social Media Ban Following Deadly Protests, Minister Confirms

    Nepal has lifted a social media ban after protests that left 19 people dead, according to a government official on Tuesday.

    The government announced it had reversed the ban on social media platforms that was put into place last week, stated Cabinet spokesperson and Communications and Information Technology Minister Prithvi Subba Gurung.

    The move came after intense protests—dubbed the “Gen Z” movement—resulted in 19 deaths and over 100 injuries in the capital and other cities. The protests erupted in response to the restrictions on social media.

    “We have ended the social media shutdown. Platforms are operational now,” Gurung told Reuters.

    Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli expressed grief over the violence, blaming it on “infiltration from various selfish centers.” He also pledged financial assistance to the families of the deceased and free medical care for those injured.

    “A special commission will be formed within 15 days to investigate the causes, evaluate damages, and recommend measures to prevent future incidents,” Oli added in a late-night statement on Monday.

    The protests, which spread across the country’s cities, are called “demonstrations by Gen Z” by organizers. They represent widespread frustration among young citizens over the government’s perceived inaction on corruption and economic development.

    Last week, the government moved to block access to several social media services, including Facebook. This decision sparked further outrage among the youth.

    Officials explained that the shutdown targeted platforms that had not registered with the government, as part of efforts to curb fake IDs, misinformation, and hate speech.

  • Nepal ‘Gen Z’ Protest Over Social Media Ban Kills 19

    Nepal ‘Gen Z’ Protest Over Social Media Ban Kills 19

    Clashes erupted in Kathmandu and other cities in Nepal after young protesters marched against corruption and the government’s move to block multiple social media platforms. Authorities reported at least 19 deaths, as police used tear gas, rubber bullets, and force to disperse crowds attempting to storm the parliament building. Some youth managed to breach security barriers, setting fire to an ambulance and hurling objects at riot police guarding the legislative complex. One witness described the police firing indiscriminately, with bullets hitting a protester behind him. Over 100 individuals, including 28 officers, sustained injuries and received medical treatment, with many injured being transported to hospitals via motorcycles. Violence also broke out in Itahari, resulting in two additional fatalities. The unrest prompted Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli to convene an emergency cabinet meeting to address the turmoil, which was triggered earlier that day by thousands of mainly young people, some in school or college uniforms, rallying in the streets carrying flags and placards demanding the unblocking of social media and an end to corruption. Protest organizers labeled these demonstrations “Gen Z protests,” reflecting widespread frustration among Nepal’s youth over government efforts to combat corruption and improve economic prospects. The recent ban on access to platforms like Facebook, imposed due to allegations of unregistered misuse, has intensified public anger. Officials justified the measure as necessary to crack down on false accounts used for hate speech, fake news, and fraud. The police were instructed to use water cannons, batons, and rubber bullets, with the army deployed around the parliament to support law enforcement. The curfew, extended until 10 p.m., now covers the prime minister’s office and government buildings in Singha Durbar. Although violence diminished later in the evening, protesters remained near the parliament building. Similar protests took place in Biratnagar, Bharatpur, and Pokhara. Many Nepalese see corruption as a pervasive problem, with critics accusing the Oli government of failing to fulfill promises to address corruption and economic challenges. Annually, thousands of young Nepalis seek employment or education abroad. Former finance secretary Rameshwore Khanal suggested that, despite unmet job creation goals, the core anger appears rooted in dissatisfaction over government appointments and inadequate anti-corruption efforts. The social media shutdown comes amidst a global trend of governments tightening control over online platforms, citing concerns over misinformation, privacy, online threats, and national security, though critics argue these measures threaten free speech.

  • Dozens Unaccounted for Following Floods at Nepal-China Border

    Dozens Unaccounted for Following Floods at Nepal-China Border

    A Nepalese army member airlifting individuals stranded by floods at the Bhotekoshi river, Nepal, on July 8, 2025. — Reuters

    • Experts suggest the flooding may stem from an overflowing glacial lake in Tibet.
    • In Nepal, those reported missing include six Chinese workers and three police officers.
    • Torrential rainfall has destroyed the “Friendship Bridge,” which connects China and Nepal.

    KATHMANDU: Over two dozen individuals are unaccounted for following heavy rainfall in Tibet, China, which caused a surge in the Bhote Koshi River, resulting in the collapse of the “Friendship Bridge” connecting China and Nepal, officials reported on Tuesday.

    Weather specialists indicated that the flooding might have originated from an overflowing glacial lake in Tibet, as there wasn’t any significant rainfall in the river’s immediate catchment area within the last 24 hours.

    A total of 18 people are missing in Nepal, while the Chinese state-run Xinhua news agency reported that 11 individuals are untraceable on the Chinese side of the border.

    The individuals missing in Nepal include six Chinese construction workers and three police officers, according to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA) via X.

    The agency also noted that eight electric vehicles were swept away and a small hydroelectric facility suffered damage due to the floods.

    Officials stated that trade activities between Nepal and China have been hindered as a result of the bridge’s destruction.

    The missing Chinese nationals were employed at an Inland Container Depot under construction with Chinese support, located around 80 km north of Kathmandu, stated Arjun Paudel, a senior administrative official in Rasuwa district.

    “The river also carried away some containers filled with goods imported from China… This represents a substantial loss [of property], and we are gathering information,” he told Reuters.

    The Nepali army successfully rescued 11 individuals, and search and rescue operations are ongoing, said spokesperson Raja Ram Basnet.

    In recent years, China has ramped up its investments in Nepal, focusing on areas such as infrastructure, power generation, and healthcare.

    China has been severely impacted by recent downpours and flash floods, which have caused extensive damage, and the nation is now preparing for a tropical storm anticipated later this week.

    Nepal’s weather forecasting department is collaborating with Sentinel Asia—an international program utilizing space-based technology to aid disaster management in the Asia-Pacific region—to identify the causes of the flooding.

    “We have submitted an Emergency Observation Request to Sentinel Asia for satellite data to help determine the potential causes and effects of the flood,” they stated.

    Meanwhile, in Pakistan, at least 79 fatalities have been reported since June 26 due to floods and rain-related incidents, including landslides and building collapses, according to the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) on Tuesday.

    The NDMA has issued new warnings about potential flash flooding and glacial lake outburst floods in Pakistan’s northern and northwestern provinces of Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, citing “a notable increase in temperatures and an approaching weather system.”

  • Indian and Filipino Climbers Tragedy on Everest Claims Lives

    Indian and Filipino Climbers Tragedy on Everest Claims Lives

    Tragic Losses on Mount Everest During the Climbing Season

    In a heartbreaking incident, an Indian climber and a fellow mountaineer from the Philippines became the first fatalities of the current climbing season on Mount Everest, which spans from March to May, as reported by hiking officials on Friday.

    Subrata Ghosh, a 45-year-old from India, tragically passed away on Thursday while descending from the summit of the world’s highest peak, specifically at a location known as the Hillary Step. According to Bodhraj Bhandari of Snowy Horizon Treks and Expedition, Ghosh had made the difficult decision to refuse to descend from that point.

    Further details were not provided, but it is important to note that the Hillary Step resides in the so-called "death zone," an area situated above 8,000 meters (26,250 feet) where oxygen levels are perilously low for human survival.

    Bhandari remarked, “We are working to retrieve his body to base camp. The exact cause of his death will only be determined after an autopsy.”

    Meanwhile, Philippine climber Philipp II Santiago, also 45, lost his life late Wednesday at the South Col while attempting to summit. Himalayan tourism official Himal Gautam shared that Santiago succumbed to exhaustion in his tent after reaching the fourth high camp.

    Both Santiago and Ghosh were part of an international expedition organized by Bhandari.

    This season, Nepal has granted 459 climbing permits for Everest, with nearly 100 climbers and their guides reaching the summit this past week. Mountain climbing, trekking, and tourism are vital sources of income for Nepal, a nation grappling with poverty.

    Since the advent of summit attempts over a century ago, at least 345 individuals have lost their lives on Everest, as per statistics from the Himalayan database and various hiking officials.

  • Nepal to Limit Everest Permits for Seasoned Climbers Only

    Nepal to Limit Everest Permits for Seasoned Climbers Only

    Certainly! Here’s a rewritten version of the content in American English, making it unique and ensuring it is plagiarism-free:

    —

    A mountaineer gripping a rope during an ice climbing session at Everest Base Camp, Nepal, on April 15, 2025. —Reuters

    KATHMANDU: Nepal plans to restrict Everest climbing permits to those who have successfully scaled at least one of the country’s 7,000-meter (22,965 ft) peaks. This proposal is part of a new legislation aiming to alleviate congestion and enhance safety on the mountain.

    As a country that relies heavily on climbing, trekking, and tourism for foreign exchange, Nepal has come under fire for allowing an excessive number of climbers, including those lacking proper experience, to attempt the ascent of the 8,849-meter (29,032 ft) peak.

    This influx often leads to long lines of climbers in the ‘death zone,’ an area lacking adequate oxygen to sustain life.

    Overcrowding has been pointed to as a significant factor in the alarming number of fatalities on Everest. In 2023, at least 12 climbers lost their lives and five went missing after Nepal issued 478 climbing permits. Eight climbers died the previous year.

    If the new law is enacted, climbers will need to provide proof of having summited at least one 7,000-meter mountain in Nepal to obtain an Everest permit.

    Additionally, the sardar, or head of the local support team, along with the mountain guide accompanying the climbers, must be Nepalese citizens.

    The draft legislation has been submitted to the National Assembly, the upper house of parliament, where the governing coalition holds the majority needed for passage.

    International expedition guides are advocating for the inclusion of any 7,000-meter peak, not just those located in Nepal, to qualify for an Everest permit.

    “That doesn’t make much sense,” stated Lukas Furtenbach from Austria-based Furtenbach Adventures. “I’d also suggest including mountains close to 7,000 meters that are frequently used for preparation, such as Ama Dablam, Aconcagua, Denali, and others.”

    Currently leading an expedition on Everest, Furtenbach emphasized the need for mountain guides from other countries to also be allowed to operate on Everest, given the shortage of qualified Nepali guides.

    “Guides should possess qualifications like IFMGA (International Federation of Mountain Guides Associations), regardless of their nationality. We welcome Nepali IFMGA guides to work in the Alps as well,” he told Reuters.

    Garrett Madison of Madison Mountaineering in the U.S. also suggested that a peak of 6,500 meters anywhere in the world could be a more reasonable requirement.

    “It’s challenging to find a suitable 7,000-meter peak in Nepal,” Madison remarked.

    Nepal boasts over 400 mountain peaks available for expeditions, with 74 of them rising above 7,000 meters, according to tourism department statistics.

    However, mountaineering officials noted that only a select few of these peaks are popular with climbers.

    “Only a handful of the 7,000-meter mountains draw climbers,” said Tashi Lhakpa Sherpa of 14 Peaks Expedition, a leading expedition organization in Nepal, who has successfully climbed Everest eight times.

    —

    This version maintains the key points while ensuring clarity and uniqueness.

  • Devastating Floods in India and Nepal Claim Nearly 100 Lives

    Devastating Floods in India and Nepal Claim Nearly 100 Lives

    A woman carries her possessions while navigating a flooded street beside the Bagmati River, which has overflowed due to heavy rainfall in Kathmandu, Nepal, July 6, 2024. — Reuters

    • At least 64 fatalities have been reported in rain-related incidents in the Indian state of Bihar.
    • Local news outlets indicate over 20 deaths in Uttar Pradesh, India.
    • In Nepal, lightning and torrential rain have claimed at least eight lives.

    Since Wednesday, nearly 100 individuals have lost their lives due to heavy rainfall affecting parts of India and Nepal, according to reports from officials and local media. The meteorological department has also warned of additional unseasonal rainfall in the area.

    The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a multi-hazard alert on Wednesday, predicting heatwaves in the western regions and thunderstorms across the eastern and central regions.

    A senior official from Bihar’s disaster management department informed Reuters that at least 64 people have died as a result of rain-related accidents in the eastern state of Bihar since Wednesday.

    In Uttar Pradesh, India’s most densely populated state, local media reports indicate that more than 20 individuals have died.

    In neighboring Nepal, reports from the National Disaster Authority confirmed that eight people have died due to lightning strikes and heavy rainfall.

    The IMD anticipates that central and eastern India will continue to experience severe storms, including heavy rain, lightning, and strong winds, until Saturday.

    Typically, the monsoon season in southern India begins in June, but the summer months have recently been characterized by extreme heatwaves that have resulted in numerous fatalities.

    Last week, the state-run IMD stated that India is forecasted to experience a significantly warmer April, with temperatures expected to be above normal across most of the nation.