Let's take initiative to reduce the risk of climate change: Minister Bhusal

Minister for Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation Pampha Bhusal has said that the recent developments are increasing the risk of climate change. Speaking at a program on 'Pre-Flood Information System Management and Cooperation and Coordination with Local Bodies in Hydropower Projects' organized here today, she said proper management of risks posed by climate change was becoming a challenge for Nepal.

 "The direct impact of climate change is being felt in our rivers and in the surrounding settlements," she said. Floods and landslides have caused great loss of life and property. The hydropower project has also been affected a lot. ” Minister Bhusal stressed the need for the responsible countries to provide compensation to the affected countries as the impact of climate change is on the rise.

"Countries affected by climate change must pay fair compensation to the affected nations," she said. Stating that it is necessary to construct the hydropower project in a quality and reliable manner and keep it safe from the risks due to various disasters, Minister Bhusal said that safe steps should be taken for the sustainable development of the project.

She warned that if the hydropower project is not safe, it could affect the economy of the country.

Recalling that the impact of climate change has caused huge loss of life and property due to rains and floods twice this year, Minister Bhusal lauded the role played by Ilam Municipality and Mai Jogmai Village Municipality in reducing the risk by setting up emergency operations centres. She said, "I am confident that the early information system will help in reducing the loss of life and property due to natural calamities." In addition, if other hydropower projects follow the pre-information system, it will benefit the project as well as the local community. ”

 On the occasion, Minister Bhusal informed that continuous efforts are being made for the sustainable development of hydropower by preparing necessary policies, rules and environment to increase the consumption of electricity generated within the country and export it to the neighbouring countries.