Bhotekoshi flood causes over Rs 50 billion damage to tourism sector: Minister Paudel – The Himalayan Times – Nepal’s No.1 English Daily Newspaper

KATHMANDU, SEPTEMBER 2

The tourism sector has suffered preliminary losses of more than Rs 50 billion due to the Bhotekoshi flash flood, according to Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation Khadak Raj Paudel.

Minister Paudel said the disaster damaged 142 hotels, 57 restaurants and 141 tourism-related vehicles, besides causing damage to religious and cultural heritage sites in the affected areas.

He said the destruction of the Langtang, Gosainkunda, Parbatikunda and Nathali trekking routes had created a need to identify alternative routes.

The ministry has proposed developing some flood-affected areas as “climate heritage” sites, with plans being discussed with stakeholders to establish museums, parks, monuments and other structures documenting the disaster and its impact.

Paudel said Nepal was facing severe consequences of climate change despite making little contribution to the problem. He called on the international community to provide Nepal with financial support and modern technology, particularly early-warning systems for glacial lake outburst floods and other risks in the Himalayan region.

He said the government would work with the international community to bring advanced disaster-warning technologies used in other countries to Nepal.

The minister also praised Nepali airlines and helicopter operators for their significant contribution to rescue and relief operations, and thanked hotel entrepreneurs for providing free accommodation and food to flood-affected people in Pokhara, Chitwan, Kathmandu and other areas.

The government has begun setting up help desks at Tribhuvan International Airport and other key locations to assist affected tourists and their families, Paudel said, adding that coordination was underway with concerned ministries and diplomatic missions.

He stressed the need for effective international communication to prevent the disaster from creating a negative perception of Nepal’s tourism sector.

“Natural disasters can happen anywhere in the world. They cannot destroy Nepal’s tourism industry. We are still standing and ready to welcome tourists,” Paudel said, urging the international community to recognise both Nepal’s climate vulnerability and its status as a safe and open tourism destination.

The government has also decided to establish a welfare fund for tourism-sector workers, while discussions are underway with the Ministry of Finance over difficulties in processing insurance claims involving people who remain missing after the floods.

Paudel said the disaster had once again demonstrated Nepal’s tradition of social solidarity, with people coming together beyond political differences for rescue and relief efforts.