KATHMANDU, JANUARY 9
Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba has stated that climate change has triggered unseasonal disasters in Nepal.
Speaking at a blanket distribution program organized by the Safe Motherhood Network Federation today, Minister Deuba highlighted the devastating impact of climate change on Nepal's environment and livelihoods.
"Unseasonal rainfall due to climate change in late September, after the monsoon had already retreated, caused flash floods and landslides," she said. "Nepal is at significant risk of losing lives and property due to these unprecedented disasters."
She further emphasized that Nepal, despite contributing minimally to global climate change, has been disproportionately affected by its consequences. "The floods and landslides that struck Nepal last September were caused by climate change, driven primarily by developed countries' actions. Nepal has endured substantial losses, yet it bears no responsibility for these disasters," she remarked.
Minister Deuba also expressed concern about accountability at the global level. "Who will compensate Nepal for the damage caused by unseasonal disasters? Nepalis are suffering for actions they did not commit, and we need answers to this injustice," she asserted.
Highlighting the dire implications for future generations, she added, "With water sources drying up due to climate change, the next generation will face severe challenges."
Minister Deuba also reflected on her personal journey, recounting her challenging childbirth experience. "The pain I endured while giving birth brought me close to life and death. My survival inspired me to join this campaign to save other women from such ordeals," she explained, elaborating on her involvement in the Safe Motherhood Campaign.
At the event, Minister Deuba distributed 1,090 blankets to representatives of Panauti and Namobuddha municipalities, as well as Roshi, Bethanchowk, Bhumlu, and Temal rural municipalities. The distribution was based on the number of pregnant and new mothers in these areas.
Meanwhile, Nepali Congress leader Umesh Shrestha stressed the importance of empowering women through capacity-building and entrepreneurship, noting the underrepresentation of women in various sectors.
Similarly, NC Kavre President Tirtha Lama urged Minister Deuba to expedite the reconstruction of the BP Highway, which was severely damaged by floods and landslides.
Treasurer Sunil Shrestha shared that the organization, founded by 26 women in 1986 under the "Clean New Mother" campaign, has evolved into a federation since 2005, working tirelessly to promote maternal health and safety.
