Bhote Koshi Flood Highlights Climate Change Risks, Need for Justice

Kathmandu. The devastating flood in the Bhote Koshi River has once again brought to the surface the increasing risks and loss and damage Nepal is facing due to climate change. Head of the Climate Management Division under the Ministry of Agriculture, Forest and Environment, Dr. Maheshwar Dhakal, says that as glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF) risks are increasing with rising temperatures in the high Himalayan region, a strong voice must be raised in international forums for climate justice, adequate climate finance, and easy access to the loss and damage fund. Here is an excerpt from a conversation with him on the Bhote Koshi flood, climate-induced loss and damage, and the upcoming COP-31.

On August 26, an unexpected and devastating flood occurred in the Bhote Koshi River, causing significant loss of life and property. How do you analyze this event in the context of climate change-induced risks and increasing climate-related disasters?