• The expedition aims to raise USD 200,000 from the campaign

Kathmandu, November 27

The Nepal Fire Truck Expedition has launched a crowdfunding campaign with the goal of raising $200,000 to be used to ship fire trucks and finance the expedition and a compelling feature-length documentary about the expedition as the journey makes its way through Nepal.

International celebrities, diplomats and adventurers are joining a team that will drive ten fire engines from across the Himalayas to Kathmandu and finally donate them to the local fire department. The publicity of this unique event will also boost Nepal’s tourism industry, the organiser said in a press statement.

Famous actors such as Manisha Koirala, Rajesh Hamal and Sunil Thapa are joining hands with international actors, including Malcolm McDowell, Michael Imperioli and Scott Glenn, in this expedition.

Music stars Nuno Bettencourt from the rock band Extreme, and Chris Adler from Lamb of God, as well as the renowned mountaineer, Reinhold Messner are among those who will volunteer to drive the fire trucks from Birgunj to Kathmandu.

The expedition is expected to have worldwide outreach through social media. The adventure will also be filmed by a team who will later compile the footage into a one-hour video programme for the PBS in the US, and a 90-minute feature film. The programmes are meant to inspire people to visit Nepal, read the statement.

The expedition will be led by former US Ambassador to Nepal Scott DeLisi and legendary mountaineer and television personality Russell Brice.

By participating in the crowdfunding campaign, one will not only support the expedition but also Nepal’s local economy. The expedition will promote luxury fashion and travel accessories that are handmade in Nepal by young women who were victims or were at risk of human trafficking. Its supporters can choose a variety of takeaways ranging from the official expedition mug to an exclusive access to the documentary film, to high-end items such as uniquely designed travel wallets, hand-woven cashmere hats and the official expedition watch, added the statement.