Nepal’s Prime Minister Balendra “Balen” Shah has called for a collaborative Himalayan Climate Resilience Mechanism involving Nepal, India, and China to combat escalating climate threats in the Himalayan region. Speaking at the 81st United Nations General Assembly, Shah emphasized the critical nature of the Hindu Kush Himalayan area, which sustains nearly two billion people through vital water resources, ecosystems, agriculture, and livelihoods.
Shah highlighted the alarming impact of rising temperatures, which are intensifying the risks of glacier-related disasters such as floods and landslides. The proposed mechanism aims to foster regional cooperation by enabling the three countries to share satellite data and technical expertise, monitor hazardous glacial lakes, enhance early-warning systems, and coordinate cross-border disaster assistance.
The proposal comes in the wake of severe floods in Nepal’s Himalayan region, which resulted in significant destruction and loss of life. This disaster underscored the urgent need for enhanced climate resilience and international cooperation. Shah’s initiative seeks to improve preparedness for climate-related emergencies across the region.
In his address, Shah also called for increased support for Nepal’s recovery and reconstruction efforts following the recent floods. He expressed gratitude to India, China, and other countries for their assistance in the aftermath of the disaster.