Kathmandu: Solukhumbu’s Khumbu Pasanglyamu Rural Municipality and Sath Sathai, an organization working for climate justice, organized an interaction program at Khumjung, 3,790 meters above sea level, on April 18. The expert team reached Khumjung in Khumbu region for climate justice and directly communicated with the local community. In the program, the impact of climate change on the Himalayan region, the challenges faced by the local people and possible solutions were discussed in depth.
Indira Rana, Former Deputy Speaker, said that the state should specifically address the sufferings of tribal communities in the Himalayas. She said, “An alternative solution should be found for the reproductive health problems faced by women in the Himalayan region and the lack of food crops.” She further stated that to make women independent, the local government needs to reach the people’s level and coordinate.
Prajita Karki, president of ‘Sath Sathai’, informed that they have been working hand in hand with the local community for the past 6 years in the campaign to protect the mountains. “For tourists, the mountains may be a matter of entertainment, but for the Himalayan community, it is life, soul and identity,” President Karki said.
Glacier expert Arunbhakta Shrestha said that although he has been hearing about the climate problems in Khumbu, based on his direct experience, this program is very important. He emphasized on the protection of water sources and the installation of early warning devices. Kushal Gurung, a renewable energy researcher, said that the increased use of gas instead of firewood will also affect the atmosphere.
