Key Takeaways:

• 2,000+ guests, 421 local governments and 36 DCCs represented at Mustang's Gharpajhong Climate Conference
• Minister Geeta Chaudhary to inaugurate the event at Jomsom Covered Hall
• Conference managed by mothers' groups, youth clubs and village societies, with local hotels providing accommodation
• Event features crying Earth balloon, 50+ agricultural stalls, and will conclude with a climate change declaration

KATHMANDU, SEPTEMBER 15 More than 2,000 guests, including representatives from 421 local governments and 36 District Coordination Committees, have arrived in Mustang for the two-day Gharpajhong Climate Conference 2083, which began today. Agriculture, Forest and Environment Minister Geeta Chaudhary inaugurated the conference. According to Bhim Kumar Basnet, chief administrative officer of Gharpajhong Rural Municipality, representatives from metropolitan cities, sub-metropolitan cities, municipalities and rural municipalities across all seven provinces had arrived by Monday evening. Accommodation has been arranged at local hotels. The conference will conclude with the issuance of a declaration on the effects of climate change. Gharpajhong Rural Municipality has mobilised village societies, mothers' groups, youth clubs and other organisations from all five wards to manage the event, said Vice-Chairperson Jamuna Thakali. Mothers' groups will provide breakfast, lunch and snacks at the conference venue, while dinner and accommodation will be arranged at hotels designated by the rural municipality, she said. The five wards have been decorated with flags reflecting local art and culture. Streetlights have been installed along the main highway and inner roads, while preparations have been made to ensure uninterrupted drinking water, internet and electricity services. Health-worker volunteers have been deployed for medical checks, and arrangements have also been made for vehicle parking and traffic management. The conference venue has been equipped with a stage, sound system, banners and other decorations, said Information Officer Bikash Sajyal. A 28-foot-high spherical balloon installation depicting a crying Earth has been placed inside the venue to raise awareness about the effects of climate change. More than 50 stalls showcasing Mustang's agricultural products have also been set up, said Roshan Thakali, agriculture branch officer at the rural municipality.