Gandaki, Sept 8: Avalanches have been reported in Mustang, Gorkha, and Solukhumbu since last April, raising concerns about the growing impact of climate change in the Himalayan region. On August 7 and 11, avalanches occurred from Dhawalagiri Himal in Mustang’s Thasang Rural Municipality-2, blocking the Ghattekhola river and distressing local residents. While the situation did not escalate into a major disaster, there remains a heightened risk for lower coastal areas.

Thasang Rural Municipality President Pradeep Gauchan attributed the incidents to the global climate crisis, stating that avalanches like these are becoming more frequent and dangerous. A similar avalanche was reported in November 2078, injuring some locals.

In Solukhumbu, an avalanche caused flooding in the Dudhkoshi river on July 32, damaging several homes and properties. Meanwhile, an avalanche in Gorkha’s Manaslu Himal in Baisakh created fears of flooding in the Budhigandaki river, though no major disaster occurred. Experts have raised concerns over the increasing frequency of such events.

Environmentalists warn that the melting glaciers and ice lakes in the Himalayan region are leading to unexpected natural disasters such as floods and landslides. The temperature rise in the Himalayas is higher than the global average, exacerbating the risks. Environmentalist Kulchandra Aryal stressed the need for Nepal to strengthen its voice for compensation for climate-related damages on the global stage.

Dr. Popular Gentle, a climate change expert, emphasized that without adequate risk reduction measures, the region could face unimaginable natural disasters. He called for urgent government action to protect the glaciers and prevent further crises.