Awaza: Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli emphasized that while Nepal’s carbon emissions are negligible, the country is severely affected by the consequences of climate change. He highlighted this issue during a side event titled ‘Glacial Melt and Beyond: Unraveling the Climate Challenges Impacting LLDCs’ at the Third United Nations Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries in Turkmenistan.
According to National News Agency Nepal, PM Oli underscored that glacial melting is a major challenge for Nepal, a Himalayan nation. He described the Himalayas as crucial for the water supply, lives, and livelihoods of billions of people downstream, as well as a symbol of national identity and pride. Oli noted the interconnectedness of the Himalayas and oceans, stressing their role as cooling centers for the planet, which are now disappearing.
The Prime Minister warned that the issue of glacial melt extends beyond environmental concerns, posing threats to the country’s development, security, and survival. He recounted a recent glacial lake outburst flood in the Lende River, Rasuwa district, which resulted in approximately 20 deaths and significant infrastructure damage. Oli expressed fears of increasing climate-induced disasters impacting agriculture, hydropower, tourism, and biodiversity.
The Prime Minister also pointed out that the effects of these threats cross national boundaries, affecting regions and future generations. He revealed that under the current emissions trajectory, the Himalayan region could lose up to two-thirds of its glacier volume by the end of the century, impacting river systems like the Ganges, Brahmaputra, Indus, and Mekong, which are vital for billions.
Oli stressed that the melting glaciers signify a loss of lives, livelihoods, heritage, and hope, calling for urgent action and justice. He urged for collective efforts to slow down glacier melting and assured that Nepal is ready to act, partner, and lead in advocating for global climate justice.