This is not standard flooding; it is a Himalayan Tsunami: Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal
Summary
Nepal is grappling with severe devastation in Rasuwa and nearby northern districts after a fast-moving mountain flood described as a “Himalayan Tsunami” damaged homes, schools and hydropower projects. Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal says the government has mobilized international rescue teams, opened alternative border crossings for stranded travelers and is now pushing for climate compensation instead of treating the crisis as ordinary humanitarian aid.
Key Points
- The disaster in Rasuwa, Nuwakot, Dhading and nearby districts caused massive damage, with wave speeds and heights far beyond a normal flood.
- International tunnel rescue teams from India, China and South Korea have been deployed within 72 hours to assist operations at buried hydropower sites.
- The government has negotiated alternative border exits for stranded Nepalis and foreign tourists and is trying to reroute stranded cargo through other crossings.
- Nepal says it will frame future disaster assistance as climate justice and compensation, blaming global emitters for the impacts of climate change.
