Glacier preservation is a priority, as Minister of Energy, Water Resources, and Irrigation, Dipak Khadka, stated that the government is committed to strengthening the preservation of glacial lakes and improving the weather forecasting system. While inaugurating the ‘Nepal National Glaciers, Water, and Weather Week 2081′, organized by the Water and Energy Commission Secretariat, he announced plans to allocate a budget for glacier preservation.
Minister Khadka expressed concern over the increasing risks from glacial lake outbursts, which could cause significant damage to both human life and infrastructure. He emphasized that the effects of climate change and rapid industrialization are raising global temperatures, negatively impacting Nepal’s icefield. The government will prioritize the protection of natural glaciers and implement budgetary measures for their conservation next year.
He stressed the need for effective policies and solutions to address the growing impacts of climate change, the decreasing size of icefields, and the changing nature of water and weather patterns. Minister Khadka called for collective efforts to maximize the use and conservation of water resources.
He further noted that the rivers and glaciers originating from the Himalayas are vital to Nepal’s energy, agriculture, tourism, and biodiversity, but climate change is causing these glaciers to shrink, posing serious challenges to water management and future water security. He emphasized the importance of integrating digital technology into current water and weather forecasting systems for better emergency management.
The Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to promoting clean water, strengthening weather forecasting systems, and ensuring sustainable water resource management. He also highlighted the opportunities for Nepal to collaborate with neighboring countries in water resource management and climate adaptation strategies.
The ‘Nepal National Water and Weather Week’, which runs for a week, aims to raise awareness on water, climate, and weather issues. The event is being celebrated under the slogan, “Glacier Preservation, Timely Alerts for All,” and will continue until March 10.
