Energy, Water Resources, and Irrigation Minister Birajbhakta Shrestha warned on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, that climate-induced disasters originating in the Himalayan region could spread hundreds of kilometers across various districts and even beyond national borders within hours. Speaking at the opening session of the Fifth Ministerial Conference on Space Applications for Sustainable Development in Asia and the Pacific, organized by the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UN ESCAP) in Bangkok, Thailand, Minister Shrestha emphasized the urgent need for increased regional cooperation and the use of modern technology to mitigate such risks.Minister Shrestha highlighted that the interconnected nature of disasters like avalanches, glacial ice outbursts, landslides, and flash floods poses significant risks to downstream settlements, infrastructure, and hydropower projects. He stressed that relying solely on rainfall forecasts is insufficient for predicting and mitigating these complex hazards.The Minister recalled the devastating floods on August 26, 2026, caused by a massive rock and glacial ice avalanche from the upper reaches of Langtang Lirung, which severely impacted the Bhote Koshi and Trishuli river basins. This event damaged settlements, roads, bridges, border crossings, and hydropower projects. He also mentioned the landslide on October 11, 2026, in the Budhigandaki area, which blocked the river and subsequently burst, damaging an under-construction hydropower project.According to a rapid damage and needs assessment, the total economic impact of these recent disasters is estimated at approximately $2.7 billion. Furthermore, an estimated $4.8 billion will be required for recovery and reconstruction efforts, Minister Shrestha informed the UN forum.These incidents underscore a changing pattern of disasters in the Himalayan region, necessitating scientific study, continuous monitoring, and robust preparedness measures for effective risk management. Minister Shrestha noted that climate change continues to exert pressure on the sensitive Himalayan ecosystem, emphasizing the need for regular monitoring of glaciers, glacial lakes, and unstable mountainous terrain to provide timely information on potential risks.Minister Shrestha advocated for expanding the use of satellite imagery, geospatial analysis, digital technology, and artificial intelligence to reduce climate and geo-hazard risks. He stressed that disaster risks are not confined within national borders, calling for regional data exchange, technical assistance, and joint monitoring programs.Expressing gratitude to UN ESCAP for providing immediate satellite images and technical information after the Bhote Koshi disaster, he urged strengthening national capacities to translate regional commitments into effective services. He also highlighted the importance of expanding satellite-based communication facilities in remote and Himalayan areas and making early warning systems effective for all communities.Nepal has reaffirmed its commitment to the National Adaptation Plan (2021–2050), the Third Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC), and the goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2045. Minister Shrestha noted Nepal’s minimal contribution of 0.01 percent to global greenhouse gas emissions, presenting clean energy, climate resilience, and regional cooperation as Nepal’s priorities.On the sidelines of the conference, Nepal and UN ESCAP are jointly organizing a regional dialogue titled ‘From Everest to the Ocean: Lessons from Nepal’s Bhote Koshi-Trishuli Disaster’ on Thursday, October 29, 2026. The dialogue, scheduled from 10 AM to 1 PM in Bangkok, will discuss how disasters originating in the Himalayan region can spread through river systems to low-lying areas and across borders.The event will explore the interconnections between climate change, glaciers, geophysical activities, and coastal risks. It will also address how disaster preparedness can be enhanced through satellite observation, geospatial analysis, artificial intelligence, and youth-led innovation. Minister Shrestha urged participating nations to collaborate on data sharing, risk monitoring, early warning, and risk-informed development planning, emphasizing the need for collective efforts to protect lives, property, and development infrastructure from climate and geo-hazards.Minister Shrestha welcomed the draft Bangkok Ministerial Declaration, which emphasizes data sharing, early warning systems, practical digital tools, and technical assistance in its third phase from 2026 to 2030. Minister Shrestha is scheduled to return to Nepal on Saturday, October 31, 2026.
Background
- On August 26, 2026, a rock and glacial ice avalanche from Langtang Lirung in the Rasuwa-Kerung area caused devastating floods.
- An initial study by ICIMOD found that approximately 132 million cubic meters of material reached the Lende Khola valley due to the rock and ice fall.
- This event was identified as a series of cascading disasters caused by rock and ice fall, not a glacial lake outburst flood.
- Existing early warning systems based on rainfall and river levels are insufficient for such sudden disasters, necessitating integrated satellite monitoring, seismic observation, and cross-border information exchange.
