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Summary:

From September 26 to 28, 2024, Kavre, Nepal, experienced an intense rainfall event that triggered thousands of landslides, resulting in the deaths of 200 people. The storm was well-forecasted and caused estimated damages of around $340 million, which is approximately 0.7% of Nepal's GDP. The disaster impacted infrastructure significantly, damaging 41 roads, 26 hydroelectric facilities, and 54 bridges, while nearly 6,000 houses were destroyed and about 11,000 families were displaced.

Satellite imagery from Planet Labs indicates that quarrying in the area contributed to the initiation of debris flows, exacerbating the situation. Reports from locals highlighted the devastating effects of the rain on their homes, with one resident stating that the rains swept away everything they owned.

The analysis of satellite images shows a high density of landslides in populated areas, suggesting a correlation between human activity and increased landslide occurrences. The presence of low-cost roads and agricultural activities in the region likely played a role in the landslides. Overall, the extreme rainfall event has raised concerns about future risks in Nepal due to climate change and human impacts on the landscape.

Archive: https://archive.md/1jWSK

Summary:

Nepal has announced the allocation of 960 MW of solar photovoltaic (PV) capacity through a tender, which originally aimed for 800 MW. The Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) selected 64 projects, with sizes ranging from 5 MW to 50 MW. The lowest bid was 4.99 NPR ($0.037) per kWh, while the highest was 5.55 NPR. The successful bidders will supply power to the NEA for 25 years under a power purchase agreement. As of the end of 2023, Nepal had installed 115 MW of solar capacity according to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA).

Archive: https://archive.md/7DrS6

The article from The New York Times discusses China's encroachment into Nepali territory, particularly in the Humla District along the border with Tibet. Residents of the area report increasing Chinese military presence and the construction of barriers, including a barbed wire fence that separates Nepal from Tibet. This "new Great Wall" is part of China's broader strategy to fortify its borders and assert control over disputed territories.

Local Nepalis complain that Chinese security forces pressure them not to display images of the Dalai Lama and restrict their activities, creating a sense of intimidation. Despite these incursions, Nepal's government has largely downplayed the issue due to its economic ties with China and the fear of jeopardizing these relations.

A previously conducted fact-finding report revealed several border infringements by China, but the findings were kept secret from the public and even some government officials. The report highlighted issues such as Chinese construction near the border and restrictions on ethnic Tibetan Nepalis in the area.

China's border fortifications are seen as part of a larger trend under President Xi Jinping's administration to redefine territorial limits, which has led to tensions with neighboring countries like India. The article emphasizes that smaller nations like Nepal face immense pressure from China's growing influence and military assertiveness, making it difficult for them to address border disputes openly.

A 1,100-year-old Buddha statue, known as the "Figure Buddha," is set to return to its native Nepal from the University of Michigan Museum of Art. The statue, which has been part of the museum's collection since 2016, is believed to have been taken from Nepal in the mid-1970s without permission. The university's Board of Regents is considering the statue's deaccession, a process that would allow for its repatriation. Museum officials stated that returning the statue aligns with best practices for managing cultural artifacts. Although the statue was purchased from an antiques shop in London in 1988, there is strong evidence suggesting its origins in Nepal.

cross-posted from: https://lemm.ee/post/39709786

Nepal proposes Saarc Council of Ministers New York meeting on September 26

Oli wants to visit the USA on taxpayers money.

Oli wants to visit the USA on taxpayers money.