Nepal’s Prime Minister, Balendra “Balen” Shah, has proposed a collaborative Himalayan Climate Resilience Mechanism involving Nepal, India, and China 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. He highlighted the increasing threats posed by rising temperatures, which have led to glacier-related disasters, floods, and landslides.
The proposed mechanism aims to enhance regional cooperation by sharing satellite data and technical expertise among the three countries. It also seeks to monitor dangerous glacial lakes, strengthen joint early-warning systems, and coordinate cross-border disaster assistance, thereby improving preparedness for climate-related emergencies. Shah’s proposal follows recent devastating floods in Nepal’s Himalayan region, which resulted in significant destruction and loss of life, underscoring the urgent need for improved climate resilience and international collaboration.
Shah also appealed for greater international support for Nepal’s recovery and reconstruction efforts in the aftermath of the floods. He expressed gratitude to India, China, and other nations for their assistance during the crisis. The initiative underscores the necessity of a concerted regional approach to address the shared challenges posed by climate change in the Himalayas.