Stories from Kathmandu · Nepal

Nepal's landslide early warning system, which includes ground movement sensors, a rainfall gauge, and a vibration sensor, has saved over 400 lives since its deployment. The system enables the evacuation of people from areas prone to landslides. A pilot study for the current system will conclude after the monsoons, with hopes for improved performance this year. The system has already saved lives, and authorities hope it will perform even better during this year's monsoon season. A new system combines sensors and satellite data to predict changes in slopes and fault lines.

Native honeybee populations in parts of western Nepal have declined by nearly 50%. The decline is attributed to climate change, habitat loss, and the use of pesticides. This reduction in pollinators poses a risk to crop yields and food security for local families.

Human rights activist Gopal Krishna Siwakoti stated that the Nepalese government has not attempted to deport Tibetan refugees back to China. Siwakoti noted that the government lacks the courage to deport Tibetans because Nepal must maintain a delicate balance with China.

A nine-year-old girl living in a Tibetan exile boarding school lacks a birth certificate, preventing her from obtaining legal status. Without documentation, she cannot attend university, secure regular employment, or open a legal bank account in Nepal.

Nepal has raised objections regarding the use of the Lipulekh Pass for an upcoming India-China Kailash Mansarovar pilgrimage. The Nepalese government claims the territory falls under its sovereign jurisdiction. The Nepalese Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued the statement regarding the border area. Analyst Promod Jaswal noted that China is proceeding methodically with infrastructure projects including roads, bridges, and tunnels in Nepal. Human rights activist Gopal Krishna Sivakoti stated that Nepal remains heavily dependent on Chinese investment. The issue is described as sensitive and dangerous for local political parties to address. Nepal recently formed a new government in March. The Indian government stated that the pass has served as the route for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra since 1954. Officials noted that travel has continued through this route for decades.

The President of the International Institute for Human Rights, Environment and Development criticized Nepal's long-standing policies regarding Tibetan refugees. He described the situation as a diplomatic disaster.

Nepal has established a new government, according to reports from SRF 4 News.

A climber is preparing to ascend a new summit in Nepal, departing tomorrow morning at 5 AM. This follows a descent from a previous mountain 12 days ago, after a 13-day period. The climber is taking a short break before the next expedition.

A refugee in Nepal has a passport that is completely full after years of annual renewals. Tenzin must add extra pages to accommodate the stamps. Even officials who come for renewals express sympathy for his situation. A refugee's passport has become full due to years of renewals.

Tibetans have used self-immolation as their most extreme form of non-violent protest. Three Tibetan monks in Nepal set themselves on fire to protest the Chinese occupation. These protests occurred in the heart of Kathmandu, next to the famous Boudhanath Stupa. Images of self-immolation were displayed in the shop. The source mentioned that Americans, Germans, and Austrians are now coming to the area instead of Chinese people, but business has declined.