MUSTANG: Chairman of CPN (Maoist Centre) and former Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ has said that Nepal is suffering the consequences of climate change despite not being responsible for causing it.

Speaking at a party event during his visit to Mustang on Wednesday, Prachanda noted that the effects of climate change have started to seriously impact Nepal. He said that during his tenure as prime minister, he consistently advocated on international platforms for compensation through a loss and damage fund.

“I made it clear in various international forums that Nepal is facing the pain of climate change and made efforts to secure annual aid through a compensation fund. But just when we were starting to see results from prioritizing this issue, my government was replaced,” he said.

At a program in Lete, Thasang Rural Municipality, Prachanda claimed that a process was underway to secure Rs 5 billion (approx. USD 50 million) in compensation from international climate funds, and he had aimed to channel this amount specifically to Mustang. However, he said, the process was halted.

He stressed that least developed countries like Nepal must continue applying pressure to mitigate the impact of climate change.

Additionally, Prachanda shared that during his recent visit to China, the Chinese side showed interest in developing infrastructure at Nepal-China border points, including Korala in Upper Mustang. He said he would continue to push relevant authorities to address problems and ensure the regular operation of these border crossings.

He emphasized that opening the border, facilitating locals, and boosting economic activity are shared concerns for all Nepalis, and pledged continued efforts even from outside the government.

Prachanda also promised to draw the attention of concerned authorities to local hardships along the Beni–Jomsom road, part of the Kaligandaki Corridor.