PM Modi’s statement comes after 128 people died and at least 141 people were injured after a strong earthquake of 6.4 magnitude jolted Nepal in the late hours of Friday,
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said that he is “deeply saddened” by the loss of lives and damage caused by the earthquake in Nepal. PM Modi offered support to Nepal and expressed India’s willingness to extend all possible assistance.
Taking to X, PM Modi stated, “Deeply saddened by the loss of lives and damage due to the earthquake in Nepal. India stands in solidarity with the people of Nepal and is ready to extend all possible assistance. Our thoughts are with the bereaved families and we wish the injured a quick recovery.”
PM Modi’s statement comes after 128 people died and at least 141 people were injured after a strong earthquake of 6.4 magnitude jolted Nepal in the late hours of Friday, The Kathmandu Post reported. Nepal Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ has left for earthquake-affected areas.
As per reports at 3 am (local time) on Saturday, Jajarkot and West Rukum have suffered the most damage, with 92 deaths just reported in Jajarkot, according to Deputy Superintendent of Police of Jajarkot district Santosh Roka, The Kathmandu Post reported. The victims include Nalgad Municipality Deputy Mayor Sarita Singh, Roka said.
As many as 44 people have died and 70 others have been injured in the district’s Ramidanda of the Barekot Rural Municipality, according to the Karnali Province Police, according to The Kathmandu Post report.
Deeply saddened by loss of lives and damage due to the earthquake in Nepal. India stands in solidarity with the people of Nepal and is ready to extend all possible assistance. Our thoughts are with the bereaved families and we wish the injured a quick recovery. @cmprachanda
More than 55 people have been injured in Jajarkot. Of them, five have been taken to the Karnali Province Hospital in Surkhet while the others have been undergoing treatment at various medical institutes in the district.
Meanwhile, the death toll in West Rukum has reached 36, Deputy Superintendent of Police of West Rukum district Namaraj Bhattarai said citing preliminary data, according to The Kathmandu Post report. As many as 36 people were reported dead in Aathbiskot Municipality and eight others died in Sanibheri Rural Municipality.
The number of those injured in West Rukum has reached 85. Preparations are being made to air evacuate one person, who has sustained serious injuries, while the others are receiving treatment at the district hospital, Chaurjahari Hospital, and other health clinics.
Bheri, Nalgad, Kushe, Barekot and Chedagad have been severely hit by the earthquake in Jajarkot district. Chief District Officer Suresh Sunar said all the security forces in the district have been mobilised in the search and rescue work.
Bheri Hospital, Kohalpur Medical College, Nepalgunj Military Hospital and Police Hospital have been made dedicated hospitals. All the heli operators of Nepal have been asked to be on standby and instructions have been given to cancel regular flights and evacuate the injured from earthquake-affected areas to other regions.
Officials have been asked to deploy ambulances at all times near the helipad of Nepalgunj Airport and military barracks.
Earlier, Dahal expressed grief over the human and material damage caused by the earthquake and said he has mobilised three security agencies for the immediate rescue and relief of the injured.
Taking to X, the Nepal Prime Minister’s Office stated, “Honorable Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal “Prachanda” has expressed his deep sorrow over the human and material damage caused by the earthquake at Ramidanda in Jajarkot at 11:47 on Friday night and has mobilized all 3 security agencies for the immediate rescue and relief of the injured.”
According to the National Centre for Seismology, the magnitude of the earthquake on the Richter Scale was recorded at 6.4 and the epicentre of the quake was in Nepal at a depth of 10 km. The tremors of the earthquake were also felt in several districts of North India including Delhi-NCR, Uttar Pradesh, and Bihar. (ANI)
The first day eventually ended with a heritage walk along Patan Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Lalitpur….reports Asian Lite News
United Nations Secretary General, Antonio Guterres, met Nepali politicians and ministers on the first day of his visit on Sunday. The first day eventually ended with a heritage walk along Patan Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Lalitpur.
“I see that it is important for Nepali people to understand that a country that has this tradition, this culture, and these monuments is a country that is spiritual. Based on these rules, which are wonderful culture and well-known architecture, I am seeing Nepal–the peace process being completed and graduation to not be the least developed country–have a future for the upcoming generation,” said the Secretary-General after touring the ancient palace built before the unification of modern Nepal.
Though devastated by the earthquake of April 2015, Patan Dubar Square has stood back quickly in comparison to other heritage sites in Nepal. The visiting Secretary General congratulated the authorities for being able to restore the temples and monuments as he stood next to the Mayor of Lalitpur, Chiribabu Maharjan.
“I want to congratulate you on the way you restored this complex after the earthquake. This restoration is a masterpiece in itself. Temples are masterpieces; the efforts that have been made to stand up are another masterpiece,” applauded Guterres.
The Secretary-General arrived in Kathmandu in the early hours of Sunday at the invitation of Nepali Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal. After hours of rest, the UNSG (United Nations Secretary-General) called on Nepali Foreign Minister Narayan Prakash Saud and Defence Minister Purna Bahadur Khadka at their offices.
The Secretary-General then called on Nepali Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal, aka Prachanda, at his office to hold a joint Press conference where he condemned the attacks on Gaza by Israel and hostage situation by Hamas. He called on all the parties to end the ongoing escalation, which, as per him, has invited a humanitarian catastrophe.
“These are difficult and tense times. I know that even though the conflict in the Middle East is thousands of miles away, it has hit very close to home for the people of Nepal. I extend my deepest condolences to the families of the ten Nepali students killed in the terror attacks by Hamas in Israel on October 7 and my best wishes for the safe return of Bipin Joshi, who is missing,” Guterres said
Reiterating calls for ceasefire and peace in the region, the chief of the world body called on all parties to sit at the table and end the ongoing crisis.
“I have just arrived here from Qatar and will continue to insist on the immediate and unconditional release of all the hostages in Gaza. I repeat my utter condemnation of the appalling attacks perpetrated by Hamas. There is no justification, ever, for the killing, injuring, and abduction of civilians. The situation in Gaza is growing more desperate by the hour. I regret that instead of a critically needed humanitarian pause, supported by the international community, Israel has intensified its military operations. The number of civilians who have been killed and injured is totally unacceptable. All parties must respect their obligations under International Humanitarian Law,” Guterres stressed.
Warning that the world is on the brink of collapse, he called on the warring sides for a ceasefire.
Soon after the media briefing, Guterres held a separate meeting with former Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba, who is also the President of the Nepali Congress and the chairman of the main opposition CPN-Unified Marxist Leninists, KP Sharma Oli.
Later in the evening, the visiting chief of the United Nations called on Nepali President Ram Chandra Paudel. (By Binod Prasad Adhikari/ANI)
Prachanda Seeks UN Role in Nepal Peace Process
Nepal’s Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal, widely known as ‘Prachanda,’ met with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres during the latter’s four-day visit to Kathmandu. Prachanda sought the UN’s role in concluding Nepal’s peace and transitional justice process, a move likely to spark discussions within the country’s political spheres.
Guterres assured the UN’s assistance but outlined specific conditions. He emphasised that the process must align with international standards, comply with Nepal Supreme Court rulings, and address the fundamental needs of victims from the decade-long conflict involving Maoists, which claimed the lives of 17,000 people.
Guterres’ conditions followed Prachanda’s efforts both domestically and internationally to secure a general amnesty for himself and Maoist combatants for human rights violations. A draft bill advocating blanket amnesty was rejected by a House committee about six weeks ago.
Guterres will address the Joint Session of the Federal Parliament on October 31, 2023, as well as have first-hand observation of the impacts of climate change on Nepal and meet affected communities as he travels the Himalayan nation.
Will Pokhara Int'l Airport be another Hambantota? India maintains watch
The development of Nepal’s Pokhara airport, primarily financed and carried out by Chinese firms, has prompted apprehensions regarding the construction quality, oversight integrity, and the financial liability imposed on Nepal…..reports Asian Lite News
Nepal’s newly inaugurated Pokhara International Airport built with Chinese help has come under scrutiny and a foreign policy expert called for stern government actions before it turns out to be Nepal’s Hambantota.
Former foreign relations advisor to Nepal’s former Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba, Arun Kumar Subedi called on the government to take stern action after an investigative piece by the New York Times exposed the wrongdoings and flaws at the time of construction of the much-hyped airport.
In an interview with ANI, Arun Kumar Subedi said, “Up to now the conditions are analogous, more or less same. Let’s pray, our government will take firm action not to make it Hambantota of Nepal,” while comparing the situation that with Sri Lanka.
The construction of Nepal’s Pokhara airport, primarily funded and executed by Chinese companies, has raised concerns about the quality of work, the manipulation of oversight, and the burden of debt on Nepal.
Additionally, the airport’s association with China’s Belt and Road Initiative has ignited diplomatic tensions with India, making it challenging for the airport to attract international flights.
The Pokhara airport serves as a stark example of the pitfalls associated with importing China’s infrastructure development model, highlighting concerns about financial sustainability and transparency, all while fueling geopolitical rivalries in the region.
Hambantota International Port Group is a Public Private Partnership and a Strategic Development Project between the Government of Sri Lanka and China Merchants Port Holdings (CMPort). This port was given to China by Sri Lanka on a 99-year lease after Sri Lanka failed to repay Chinese loans. It is seen as a case of Chinese “debt trap” Diplomacy.
The Pokhara International Airport has since its opening earlier this year not seen any frequent International flights except for the chartered Chinese flights which appear on rare occasions.
Dubbed a “dream come true” for locals of Pokhara, the tourist destination of Nepal, the Pokhara International Airport upon its completion, has been claimed to be part of China’s grand ambitions, aligning with President Xi Jinping’s signature infrastructure campaign, the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
Days before the formal inauguration of the airport, the Chinese Ambassador claimed it to be part of BRI which was rejected by the Nepal Government. Soon after the handover, the Pokhara Airport exemplified the perils that came with importing China’s infrastructure-at-any-cost development model, disproportionately benefiting Chinese firms at the expense of the borrowing nation.
China CAMC Engineering, the construction division of state-owned conglomerate Sinomach, played a pivotal role in the Pokhara airport project. It imported building materials and machinery from China, and the airport itself was brimming with Chinese-made security and industrial technology. Despite China’s claims about the project’s quality, an investigation by The New York Times revealed an unsettling narrative.
Multiple individuals involved in the project and a thorough examination of thousands of documents indicated that China CAMC Engineering had consistently dictated terms to maximize profits and protect its interests.
Simultaneously, it systematically dismantled Nepali oversight. As a consequence, Nepal found itself entangled in significant debt to Chinese creditors without the expected influx of passengers to repay the loans.
“The International community basically the multilateral agencies which are our developmental partners are eyeing this particular project (Pokhara International Airport). Outcomes of the project are not welcomed by our development partners as well as analysts and economic experts as well. The impact of this particular airport in the international community related to Nepal is not positive,” claimed Subedi, further adding, “In one word, it’s ‘odyssey for nothing’ at present.”
The Himalayan nation’s finance ministry had earlier signed a memorandum of understanding supporting CAMC’s proposal in 2011, even before an official bidding process had started. The Chinese loan agreement exclusively allowed Chinese firms to bid for the project.
CAMC initially submitted a bid for USD 305 million, nearly double Nepal’s cost estimate for the airport. This drew criticism from Nepali politicians, who accused the process of being rigged and the price inflated. Following the outcry, CAMC lowered its bid to USD 216 million, reducing the cost by approximately 30 per cent.
In 2016, China and Nepal formalised a 20-year agreement for the project, with a quarter of the funding provided as an interest-free loan. Nepal intended to borrow the remainder from China’s Export-Import Bank at a 2 per cent interest rate, with repayment scheduled to begin in 2026.
As construction progressed, glaring issues came to light. The Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal was responsible for overseeing the Chinese contractor, but the lack of experienced personnel, combined with the inadequate allocation of funds for consultants, hampered the project.
Initially earmarked at USD 2.8 million, the budget for hiring consultants was to ensure CAMC’s compliance with international construction standards, however, it was reduced to a mere USD 10,000, diverting funds elsewhere.
This lack of oversight allowed CAMC to initiate work before consultants were in place and perform construction work that did not meet international standards.
Key components, such as soil density tests for the runway’s foundation, were omitted, jeopardising the runway’s future stability.
Other oversights included the airport’s drainage system design, ignoring historical rainfall data and sloping topography, increasing the risk of flooding.
The quality of Chinese-made building materials and the identity of vendors were inadequately documented, contravening the terms of CAMC’s contract with Nepal, as reported by The New York Times.
While consulting efforts were expected to oversee CAMC’s work, the Chinese company managed to sidestep consultants and interact directly with Nepali officials who had limited construction experience. Any efforts to seek additional information or documentation were often fruitless.
China’s Export-Import Bank had commissioned China IPPR International Engineering, a consulting firm, to ensure the project’s quality, safety, and schedule and to confirm Nepal’s satisfaction with CAMC’s work.
However, the situation grew murkier in 2019 when CAMC acquired IPPR, turning it from a sister company into a direct subsidiary. IPPR’s fees came from Nepal as part of its loan from the Chinese bank.
Chinese engineers working on the project claimed that they were instructed not to scrutinise CAMC’s work closely, with a focus on delivering an airport rather than a “chicken farm.”
Furthermore, allegations surfaced that documents related to the qualifications of IPPR’s workers in Pokhara had been falsified. In some cases, even employee credentials were manipulated. Such practices revealed a disconcerting disregard for transparency and accountability.
“The project was selected emotionally rather than economic and financial parameters. So even the Chinese airlines are reluctant to operate the regular flight in that particular airport,” Subedi claimed further.
As Pokhara airport struggled to attract international flights, especially from Indian airlines, Nepal’s aspirations for the airport were put in jeopardy.
Buddha Air, Nepal’s largest airline, had requested permits for flights to India but awaited approval from the Indian government.
A feasibility study commissioned by CAMC had projected passenger numbers that would enable the airport to repay its loans from profits, but as of now, no international flights have commenced.
Nepali officials have reportedly requested that China convert the loan into a grant due to the airport’s financial challenges, a matter discussed during Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal’s visit to Beijing in late September. The joint statement issued by China and Nepal during the visit acknowledged the completion and operation of the Pokhara airport but did not mention plans to waive the loan.
“The best way to get off this trap is to monetize the assets and whatever the sum comes from the asset monetization, be kept under viability of debt funding and all the loan (amount) that remains can be paid in a single shot. Otherwise, even if it is an interest-free loan it would be a big debt trap because the country has to pay at least five per cent for the exchange rate fluctuation. So even in zero per cent interest, the overall impact will be at least five per cent,” suggested Subedi. (ANI)
Nepal Airlines officials say the grounded planes–two 56-seater MA60 and three 17-seater Y12e–have been more trouble than they are worth..reports Asian Lite News
Nepal Airlines is selling off its Chinese planes at ‘junkyard price’, The Kathmandu Post reported.
The six aircraft acquired between 2014 and 2018, were worth Rs 6.66 billion in grants and loans. One of the planes has since crashed. The national flag carrier is asking Rs 220 million for the remaining five aircraft in an apparent effort to get rid of them as fast as possible.
Nepal Airlines officials say the grounded planes–two 56-seater MA60 and three 17-seater Y12e–have been more trouble than they are worth.
Plagued by breakdowns and lack of pilots, operating the aircraft was a massive financial strain, pushing the debt-ridden company into greater distress. In July 2020, the state-owned carrier felt it had had enough, and put all of them in deep storage.
As per The Kathmandu Post, the current asking price of Rs 220 million was determined by an independent international assessor, according to a highly-placed source at Nepal Airlines Corporation.
The official said: “That is scrap value.”
Nepal Airlines on January 19 issued a request for proposals (RFP) for a full appraisal of the two MA60 and three Y12e aircraft. The company had decided to sell the planes and spare parts as there were no takers for a lease offer despite a deadline extension.
Among the four short-listed assessors–Aviation Asset Management Inc, Fintech Aviation Services Sarl, IBA Group Limited and Ishka Ltd–American company Aviation Asset Management Inc was selected.
Nepal Airlines paid the company around USD 20,000 for the valuation report.
“Now everyone is in a dilemma, including the Nepal Airlines board, which is reluctant to consent to sell the planes at the throwaway price,” said an official at the Tourism Ministry, who wished not to be named as the appraisal report is highly confidential.
“Who will sell the Chinese planes now? No one will dare to do it,” the official said, as per The Kathmandu Post.
A spokesperson for Nepal Airlines, Ramesh Poudel, confirmed to the Post without elaborating that they had submitted the appraisal report for the Chinese planes to the Tourism Ministry last month.
“We haven’t heard anything since then.”
He said that several reports have pointed out that the Chinese-made planes were not commercially and technically viable. “As per reports, it’s not feasible to fly them. The only option is to sell them.” (ANI)
The building of Shree Mahendra Rastriya Secondary School, Baluwatar, Kathmandu was built with Indian assistance worth NRs.19.20 million, under the ‘Nepal-India Development Cooperation…reports Asian Lite News
Deputy Chief of Mission at the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu, Prasanna Shrivastava, on Wednesday handed over the building of Mahendra Rashtriya Secondary School here to the local authorities.
The school building was built with Indian assistance.
Santosh Budhathoki, chairman of the District Coordination Committee, said addressing the handover event at Baluwatar, Kathmandu, “The generous support of the Government of India has been very useful for us in building many such institutions. The Mahendra Rastriya Secondary School is one of many instances of our bilateral cooperation. We hope to boost such collaborative efforts in the time to come.”
According to the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu, the building of Shree Mahendra Rastriya Secondary School, Baluwatar, Kathmandu was built with Indian assistance worth NRs.19.20 million, under the ‘Nepal-India Development Cooperation.
Built 15 years ago, the building has now been formally handed over. It was inaugurated jointly by Prasanna Shrivastava, Deputy Chief of Mission, Indian Embassy, in Kathmandu, and Santosh Budathoki, chief, DCC Kathmandu.
Political representatives, social workers, officials of the Nepali government, representatives of school management, teachers, parents, and students were also present at the event.
The grant from the Indian government, under ‘Nepal-India Development Cooperation’, was utilised for the construction of the triple-storey school building and the provision of furniture for the school. The project was taken up as a high-impact community development project under an agreement between the two governments.
The project was implemented through the District Coordination Committee, Kathmandu.
“This project is part of a robust development partnership between India and Nepal, which has made significant progress in recent years through the implementation of various projects across key sectors of the Nepalese government and for the people,” Srivastava said.
Mahendra Rastriya Secondary School was founded as a primary school in 1956 through the efforts of a group of motivated teachers. The school was recognised by the Nepal government in 1973 as a primary school and was upgraded to Lower Secondary in 1995. It was later upgraded to Secondary level in 2000 before being bestowed the status of a Higher Secondary School.
The school has a strength of over 600 students, 50 per cent of whom are girls. Since its inception, the school has achieved remarkable success, imparting quality education to children from the local community.
Since 2003, India has taken up over 546 High Impact Community Development Projects in Nepal in various sectors and has completed 483 projects. Amongst these, 105 projects are in Bagmati Province in various sectors. These include 40 projects in Kathmandu.
In addition to these, the Indian government gifted 974 ambulances and 234 school buses to various hospitals, health posts and educational institutions in Nepal on the country’s Independence Day and Republic Day.
Of these, 69 ambulances and 52 school buses were provided in Kathmandu, till date.
As close neighbours, India and Nepal share wide-ranging, multi-sectoral cooperation.
The implementation of HICDP projects reflects the continued support of the Indian government in bolstering the efforts of the Nepalese government in the upliftment of its people, augmenting infrastructure in priority sectors, especially the education sector in Nepal. (ANI)
Passengers are seen at the departure hall of Ben Gurion International Airport near Tel Aviv, Israel, on Nov. 28, 2021. (Photo by Gil Cohen Magen/Xinhua/IANS)
The Nepal Airlines aircraft will fly to Israel via Dubai to repatriate about 300 Nepali citizens…reports Asian Lite News
Nepal will be sending flights from its flagship carrier — Nepal Airlines — on Wednesday evening to Israel to evacuate its citizens from Israel, who have been stranded since terrorist outfit Hamas launched ‘surprise attacks on Saturday.
As per the secretariat of Nepal’s Foreign Minister NP Saud, the Nepal Airlines aircraft will fly to Israel via Dubai to repatriate about 300 Nepali citizens, who have registered themselves online to return to the Himalayan nation.
On Wednesday morning, Nepal Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal, along with the Minister for Tourism, Sudan Kirati, convened a meeting at his official residence, directing the heads of the Civil Aviation Authority and Nepal Airlines to launch an immediate rescue mission for stranded Nepalese citizens in Israel.
As per the secretariat of the Nepal Foreign Minister, permissions have been already obtained from Israel. About 300 Nepalese citizens have already registered themselves to return from Israel.
In adherence to international safety protocols, the government is ensuring that all insurance and permit procedures are fulfilled, with necessary arrangements to be finalised in coordination with the United Arab Emirates.
The latest move of the Nepal government comes in the wake of the death of 10 students from Nepal in Kibbutz near the Gaza border after Hamas terrorists opened fire on them on Saturday. The Nepal government on Sunday confirmed the death of the students, who were in Israel under the “Learn and Earn” scheme — a 10-month internship in the agricultural sector.
Further, one Nepalese citizen remains unaccounted for after the Hamas attacks. Among the affected individuals are 49 students pursuing studies in the Faculty of Agricultural Sciences at Sudurpaschim University, part of the “Learning and Earning” programme who found themselves trapped in the conflict zone following the terror attacks.
While 32 of these students were rescued by the Israeli military and moved to safety in Tel Aviv, they are now seeking assistance to return to Nepal, as Israel intensifies its counter-offensive against Hamas in the Gaza Strip.
Amid the ongoing onslaught in Gaza, the spokesperson for the Israel Defence Force (IDF), Lieutenant Colonel Jonathan Conricus, on Wednesday said 1,200 Israelis were killed and more than 2,700 injured in the Hamas attacks, adding that the Israeli soldiers were ready to execute the mission in Gaza.
“Four days after Hamas breached into Israel, attacked Israeli communities, murdered and massacre Israeli citizens and took dozens of Israeli hostages into Gaza. The dead toll is staggering, a 1200 dead Israelis. The overwhelming majority of them civilians and more than 2700 wounded and sadly something tells me that these are not final numbers,” he said.
The IDF spokesperson said about 300,000 soldiers have been deployed on the Gaza border claiming that they would ensure that the Hamas will be shorn of its military capabilities by the end of the counter-offensive.
In a live video posted on X, Conricus added, “We have sent our inventory, armoured soldiers, our artillery cores and many other soldiers from the reserves. 300000 in numbers in different brigades and divisions and they are now close to the Gaza strip getting ready to execute the mission that Israeli government and that is to make sure that Hamas at the end of the war won’t have any military capabilities by which they can threaten or kill Israeli citizens.” (ANI)
According to the federal and provincial government rules, crusher plants cannot be operated within 500 metres of bridges and highways….reports Asian Lite News
The locals of Nepal’s Tinau Rural Municipality have been protesting against a Chinese crusher plant set up around a month ago near the Tinau River in Ward 3. The locals allege the plant has been operating by flouting the safety standards set by the government, The Kathmandu Post reported.
According to the chairman of the Tinau Rural Municipality Prem Shrestha, the crusher plant was set up by China State Construction Engineering Corporation, the contractor of the Siddhababa Tunnel Project.
The locals of Dobhan village, the site of the crusher plant, have been protesting, claiming that it harms the environment. Shrestha claimed that the plant’s operators did not conduct the mandatory Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) and Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) before bringing the plant into operation.
Shrestha said the crusher plant has been set up within a 50-metre radius of the Tinau River, a local forest, a suspension bridge, and a concrete bridge. It is also within 100 metres of the Siddhartha Highway.
According to the federal and provincial government rules, crusher plants cannot be operated within 500 metres of bridges and highways.
“After the locals launched a petition against the plant demanding that it should be shut down immediately, we asked the company to submit the IEE or EIA reports, but they did not have any. We then asked them to provide us with approval documents from related government agencies but they did not have those either,” said Shrestha. “Later a tripartite discussion was held between the construction company, the locals, and the rural municipality, in which we gave the company some time to submit the necessary documents and continue work in a way that would not harm the environment.”
The locals, however, were unhappy with the new arrangement and launched a social media campaign against the crusher plant.
Raju Pandey, a local of Ward 3 of Tinau, said that the crusher plant has continued excavations in violation of the tripartite agreement. He claimed that the agreement was that the company would stop operation until it submitted the approval documents, but they have still been using heavy machinery, excavators, and tipper trucks, among others.
“If we let them continue the work, it will have an adverse and irreversible impact on the river, forest, the bridges and human settlements. The rural municipality should not have agreed to let them continue the excavations without proper documents and assessments. We are against the local unit’s decision.”
According to government guidelines related to the excavation of riverbed materials, the use of excavators and loaders is prohibited during excavation in national forests, parks, reserves, buffer zone areas, protected areas, and other sensitive areas like the Chure (one of the three major hill systems in Nepal). The crusher operators can use only those equipment, machines, and vehicles approved in the EIA or IEE reports. (ANI)
It was a few months back when Soman had sent Aanand to Israel for ten months under the “Learn and Earn” scheme for the practical of BSc Agriculture….reports Asian Lite News
Family members of Aanand Sah, one of the Nepalese students killed by Hamas terrorists in Israel are shocked and grief-stricken.
His mother Shivakali Devi lost her conscience after losing her 22-year-old son who was the only bread earner of the family.
Aanand Sah’s father Soman Sah breaks down whenever flashbacks of his son run on his mind not knowing what to do next. It was a few months back when Soman had sent Aanand to Israel for ten months under the “Learn and Earn” scheme for the practical of BSc Agriculture.
Soman Sah said, “He went to Israel for further studies. He was outstanding amongst the students who were on the fray, out of more than 100 students only 50 were selected through interviews. There were no charges for application, visa and flight fare, only the personal expenses need to be incurred by us. I took the loan of 300 thousand and then sent him. I am just a farmer and have mortgaged the lands for it.”
According to the family members, Aanand since his early childhood had a keen interest in agriculture and was on his way to making a career in the same field. Upon getting selected for the scheme to go to Israel for practical he had planned to return back and start working in the field of agriculture, Soman recalled.
“Papa I want to go Israel for technical education, Israel is one of the best places in the world for agriculture and I will learn more technical knowledge and can use it in Nepal later but now he is gone,” Soman broke down as he recalled the conversation with his son.
The Sudur Paschim University where Aanand was studying on full scholarship, had sent 50 students to Israel for ten months practical and was killed in an ongoing terrorist attack by the Hamas terrorist group which started Saturday. The family of Aanand is still unaware of the circumstances under which he lost his life as the authorities are yet to contact the family.
Soman Sah said, “There has been no contact from anyone from the Nepalese authorities, neither there has been communication from the college where he was studying in Israel.”
“We came to know about it through the news, ‘bauwa’ friend informed us after seeing it on the news and messaged us on the phone that he is gone,” said the father calling his son with the pet name “Bauwa” meaning lovely son.
As per the family, Aanand wasn’t able to attend the classes in Israel because he needed to deposit a fee of USD 5088 to enroll in the class starting on October 12, 2023. In order to support the family and reduce pressure on the family, Aanand has started working on a farm. The family doesn’t have any details about the farm where he was working or the university where he was supposed to enroll.
Nepal’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has yet to contact the families of the 10 deceased students nor has any state mechanism offered condolence to the families.
Nepal’s government has called on its citizens residing in Israel to register themselves online as it plans to repatriate them. The Israeli Police confirmed the deaths of the 10 Nepal students. The toll is expected to go up as some of the injured are in serious condition and there are others who are yet to be contacted.
The Embassy of Nepal issued a notice, calling on distressed Nepal citizens to register themselves as operations at the Tel Aviv-based airport are proceeding without disruption enabling passage of flights, Nepal’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a press release.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs in a late-night release issued on Sunday stated, “We have requested the Israeli government to promptly identify and arrange for repatriation of the deceased Nepal nationals, as well as to ensure the rescue and appropriate medical treatment for the injured.”
To make the process smoother, online registration is being prepared in cooperation with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Nepal Embassy in Tel Aviv and the Israel government. “This registration will collect crucial details from Nepalese citizens wishing to return to Nepal from Israel,” the statement added.
As the fighting enters the third day, about 10 Nepalese students have been killed who were in Israel under the ‘Learn and Earn’ program supported by the Israeli government. The deceased- students from Sudur Paschim University of Nepal fell victim to an attack by Hamas, according to the official statement. (ANI)
Candlelight Vigil Held
Dozens of students held a candlelight vigil on the premises of Patan Durbar Square here commemorating the 10 Nepali students killed by Hamas in Israel.
The members of the Nepal Student Union observed a minute of silence on Monday evening and lit candles while they stood in line holding banners and placards that read “Heartfelt condolence” and “Pray for World Peace” and called for prompt rescue of remaining Nepali citizens trapped in Israel.
The 10 Nepali students who were flown to Israel under the “Learn and Earn” scheme of the Israeli Government fell victim to the attack of the Hamas terror group. The Nepal Embassy in Tel Aviv late on Sunday evening confirmed the death of Nepali citizens as well as stated some were in critical condition and some were missing.
“Today we are gathered here to commemorate the fallen 10 Nepali agriculture students who lost their lives in the ongoing fight between Israel and Hamas, they (Nepali students) were in Israel for an Internship and have been killed. The whole nation is now mourning and is in complete shock,” Dipendra Regmi, one of the participants of the vigil ceremony told ANI.
According to the Foreign Minister of Nepal, there are about 4,500 Nepali working as caregivers in Israel whereas 265 additional Nepali students are in Israel participating in the learning and earning programmes, sponsored by the Israeli government.
During Sunday’s address at the parliament, Foreign Minister NP Saud stated that 119 students from Agriculture and Forestry University, 97 from Tribhuvan University, and 49 from Far-Western University were flown to Israel lately.
Notably, 17 of the 49 students from Sudur Paschim University were studying in Kibbutz Alumim, located in southern Israel close to border areas with Gaza. The Foreign Minister in his address had mentioned 10 students to be out of contact who by late evening were confirmed dead.
In addition, the Foreign Minister also stated that 4 of the 17 students from Sudur Paschim University have sustained injuries and are currently receiving medical treatment at a local hospital. (ANI)
Israeli fighter jets strike Gaza military post in response to rocket fire
Nepal Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ has condemned the unprecedented attack by Hamas terrorists while extending his sympathies to the injured Nepalese citizens in Israel…..reports Asian Lite News
After at least 10 students from Nepal were killed in the ongoing attack by Hamas terrorists in Israel, the Nepal government has called on its citizens residing in Israel to register themselves online as it plans to repatriate them.
The Israeli Police confirmed the deaths of the 10 Nepal students. The toll is expected to go up as some of the injured are in serious condition and there are others who are yet to be contacted.
The Embassy of Nepal issued a notice, calling on distressed Nepal citizens to register themselves as operations at the Tel Aviv-based airport are proceeding without disruption enabling passage of flights, Nepal’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a press release.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs in a late-night release issued on Sunday stated, “We have requested the Israeli government to promptly identify and arrange for repatriation of the deceased Nepal nationals, as well as to ensure the rescue and appropriate medical treatment for the injured.”
To make the process smoother, online registration is being prepared in cooperation with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Nepal Embassy in Tel Aviv and the Israel government.
“This registration will collect crucial details from Nepali citizens wishing to return to Nepal from Israel,” the statement added.
“As the fighting enters the third day, about 10 Nepali students has been confirmed killed who were in Israel under the “Learn and Earn” program supported by Israeli government. The deceased- students from Sudur Paschim University of Nepal fell victim to an attack by the Palestinian militant group- Hamas,” according to the official statement.
According to Israeli local media cited by the Times of Israel, more than 700 Israelis have died since October 7 when Hamas militants launched a surprise attack in Israel. According to Israeli government, over 2000 people have been injured in the attack. According to the Government Press Office, a body that operates under the Israeli PM’s office, over 100 people have been taken as hostages in Gaza.
On Sunday, Nepal’s Foreign Minister NP Saud while addressing the house session announced the formation of a mechanism to coordinate and rescue the distressed citizens from Israel.
“The mechanism formed under the supervision of the Foreign Minister has been assigned to take all necessary steps to ensure the safety and rescue of Nepali citizens in Israel,” the statement noted.
To further extend help, the ministry also released contact details for officials from the Nepal Embassy and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, “urging affected individuals to remain in contact with them and maintain vigilance during this challenging period.”
The Israeli citizens can contact them on +972(0)35168085, or the Ambassador Kanta Rizal at +972545864423, or First Secretary Arjun Ghimire at +972528289300. They can also email them to “nepal.embassy@012.net.il”.
Earlier, In a post shared on X, NP Saud said, “The latest update on the attack in Israel’s southern region since 6:30 AM (Nepali Time), Oct. 7, 2023, and its repercussions on Nepalis in the affected area are as follows: At present, there are approximately 4,500 Nepali nationals serving as caregivers in Israel. Additionally, 265 Nepali students are participating in Israel’s learning and earning program, sponsored by the Israeli government.”
Nepal Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ has condemned the unprecedented attack by Hamas terrorists while extending his sympathies to the injured Nepalese citizens in Israel..
In a statement shared on X, Dahal stated, “I unequivocally condemn the terrorist attack in Israel this morning. Nine of the Nepalis have been reportedly injured. At this critical hour, I extend my heartfelt sympathies to injured Nepalis and other innocent victims and their families.”
Further, the Nepal Foreign Ministry stated that it was in close contact with citizens living in Israel and was facilitating the medical assistance of the injured. (ANI)
General Officer Commanding (GOC) of Madhya Uttar Pradesh Sub Area (MUPSA) Major General Alok Kacker and Colonel of the 9th Gorkha Rifles Regiment 9 went on a six-day official visit to Nepal.
He felicitated Gallantry awardees and veernaris at a rally in Pokhara. The General Officer also virtually inaugurated the Ex-servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS) Type-E Polyclinic (Mobile Medical Unit) Bhojpur from Kathmandu.
The polyclinic would be a lifeline for Indian Army veterans and their families residing in and around remote areas of Bhojpur. It will provide doorstep healthcare services for more than five thousand Indian Army veterans and their families in the Far East region.
Major General Alok Kacker concluded his visit on October 1, 2023.
India-Nepal power trade
In a bid that will bolster bilateral energy cooperation, now Indian states can directly buy electricity from Nepal.
This agreement was reached during the 14th meeting of the Joint Technical Team ( JTT) on Wednesday in New Delhi, according to the Nepali side.
Both sides also reached an understanding on increasing the quantum of power to be traded through the Dhalkehar -Muzaffarpur cross – border transmission line and accelerating the – construction of cross-border lines to boos the power trade.
Any Indian undertaking that is in the power trading business can sell and buy electricity through a 132 kv transmission line, said Prabal Adhikari, head of the energy trade department of Nepal Electricity Authority, the power trade between Nepal and any Indian states will be signed at Energy Secretary level.
The agreement comes in operation and execution only after signing the deal whose meeting is expected to convene soon.
Those states who want to procure electricity from Nepal should propose first to India’s state power agency for approval.
In order to implement the agreement, two dedicated 132 kv transmission lines between Nepal and India will be used for power export from Nepal to Indian states like Bihar, and Uttar Pradesh among others. Nepal and India are going to complete the construction of 132 kv new Nautanwa – Mainaiya line and Kohalpur – Nanpara line which will be used for the import and export of power besides the 400 kv Dhalkehar – Muzaffarpur cross – border transmission line.
India’s Sutluj Jal Vidyut Nigam which is currently developing a 900 MW Arun – III hydropower project is building a 400 kv Dhalkebar – Sitamarhi line that is expected to evacuate up to 2,000 MW.
Now India is going to give access to Nepal to use this line for power export and import from the country. Earlier, this line was exclusively built to power export being produced in Arun III and two other projects.
As of now, Nepal and India are trading business only through the 400 kv Dhalkehar – Muzaffarpur cross-border transmission line. The meeting also decided to upgrade the capacity of the Dhalkewar-Muzaffarpur cross-border transmission line which has a capacity for importing and exporting 600-MW of electricity.
After strengthening of this transmission line, Nepal can sell 800 MW of electricity to India.
In the last joint steering committee meeting held in February, both sides agreed to increase the volume of power to be traded via the 400kv Dhalkehar – Muzaffarpur cross – border line from 600 MW to 800 MW.
As energy trade becomes a key foundation between Nepal and India, both countries are planning to constitute several cross-border transmission lines.
Besides, the 400KV Dhalkehar-Muzaffarpur cross-border line, both nations are also constructing Hetuda-Dhalkebar-Inaruwa line. Another 400 kV transmission line that is under construction between the two countries is Dodhara-Bareilly which is expected to complete by 2028-29. (ANI/IANS)
