Kathmandu Blames Major Emitters, Plans Climate Justice Push at UN
Balen Shah UNGA
There is enormous destruction that has been caused by huge floods and landslides in Nepal.
The number of deaths has surpassed 1,100 people, and about 3,900 people are still missing.
The floods have destroyed numerous roads, bridges, hydropower projects, and houses.
This disaster has left enormous economic impacts on Nepal.
According to estimates, Nepal requires about $4 to $5 billion for rebuilding the damaged parts.
This sum is equivalent to about 10 percent of Nepal’s GDP.
Nepal Prepares Diplomatic Offensive
Nepal has made a major diplomatic move after the flood and landslide disasters in the country.
India, China, and the US are accused of global warming by the Nepalese government.
They have connected greenhouse gas emission to worsening climate change.
Therefore, Nepal has requested financial compensation for the damage brought about by climate change.
Balen Shah, the Prime Minister of Nepal, is likely to attend the United Nations General Assembly meeting.
He can use this opportunity to air the problems caused by climate change in his country.
Nepal also wants to receive financial compensation from rich industrial countries.
Floods Wreak Havoc in Himalayan Region
The reported floods were preceded by snowmelts and landslides in the Bhote Koshi river basin.
More than 1,100 people have been reported dead due to the disaster.
On the other hand, 3,900 people have gone missing.
There has been huge destruction on major roads, bridges and hydropower plants.
Several houses have also been washed away by floodwaters.
The extent of destruction has rendered reconstruction a pressing national concern.
Nepal Seeks Climate Justice
Nepal believes that it is one of the least contributors to global warming.
Nevertheless, there are serious climate-induced problems faced by the people of the Himalayas.
Glacial melting and unexpected floods pose threats to communities of the region.
As a result, Nepal needs climate justice and not disaster relief.
According to Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal, Nepal does not need charity or traditional disaster relief aid.
What Nepal actually needs is climate justice and damages.
The government has officially asked for financial help from the UN.
Balen Shah May Address Climate Compensation at UN
Prime Minister Balen Shah is set to attend the UN General Assembly meeting this month.
Balen Shah can bring Nepal’s climate-based losses to the international community.
In addition, Nepal plans to ask for climate compensation from developed and industrialised countries.
The Nepalese government plans to make the issue a global environmental justice matter.
The government believes that vulnerable Himalayan nations suffer most of climate-based losses.
India’s Listing Causes Diplomatic Tussle
The inclusion of India by Nepal as a major carbon emitter has resulted in diplomatic negotiations.
India ranks as one of the biggest emitters of carbon in the world.
But its per-capita emissions are still smaller compared to other major economies.
Both China and western industrialised countries have been major contributors to global carbon emissions.
But Nepal has included India in its climate compensation demands.
This may result in new diplomatic tussle between the two countries.
Nepal’s Search for Technical Support
In spite of its diplomatic position, Nepal is still looking for some practical help from India and China.
The government needs experts to help in conducting rescue and reconstruction works.
Nepal requires tunnel rescue teams and experts for reconstructing bridges.
Thus, Nepal is using the international help along with its climate justice campaign.
The government is not going to remain confined to seeking disaster assistance.
Rather, Nepal intends to address the problem through the environment justice campaign.
The claim of Nepal for compensation before the United Nations will be subjected to global vigilance.
It will be keenly observed how much far Nepal proceeds with its climate justice campaign.
Balen Shah UNGA
