Sagarmatha Dialogue Addresses Rapid Himalayan Glacier Melting

An international environment conference, Sagarmatha Sambaad, convened in Kathmandu, Nepal, to address the rapid melting of Himalayan glaciers and its catastrophic effects on ecosystems and local communities. Nepal Prime Minister Khadga Prasad Oli emphasized the critical importance of protecting the mountains to safeguard the planet, seas, and humanity, while Nepal Foreign Minister Arzu Rana Deuba highlighted the increasing frequency of floods, glacial lake outbursts, droughts, and forest fires impacting livelihoods. The conference brought together delegates from multiple countries, including neighboring India and China, to promote regional cooperation and scientific knowledge sharing to combat climate change effects in the Himalayas. India's Union Environment Minister Bhupendra Yadav underscored the urgent need for climate finance and technology transfer from developed nations and advocated for collective action to conserve biodiversity and water resources. Scientific studies show the Himalayan region is warming nearly twice as fast as the global average, causing glaciers like Parlung No. 4 to shrink significantly, impacting major river systems vital for water and hydropower in several Asian countries. Experts warn that up to 80% of Himalayan glaciers could be lost in the coming decades, increasing risks of avalanches, flash floods, and water insecurity for millions relying on these mountain ecosystems.