The aftermath of Nepal floods: Damaged homes, roads and infrastructure highlight the scale of the Himalayan disaster (Img: Pinterest)
Kathmandu: Nepal has intensified its demand for climate compensation after one of the deadliest flood disasters in recent years killed more than 1,100 people and left thousands missing.
The catastrophic floods in the Bhotekoshi river basin damaged homes, roads, bridges and key infrastructure across several districts of Bagmati province, including Rasuwa, Nuwakot and Dhading.
Nepal has described the disaster as a "Himalayan Tsunami" and blamed the growing impact of climate change on vulnerable Himalayan regions.
Nepal Prime Minister Balendra "Balen" Shah is likely to travel to New York for the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), where he may highlight the country's demand for climate justice and compensation.
The Nepal government believes countries contributing heavily to global greenhouse gas emissions should help vulnerable nations facing severe climate-related disasters.
Kathmandu has formally approached the UN-backed Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage for urgent financial assistance.
Nepal said the disaster caused massive destruction, displacement and loss of livelihoods, requiring billions of dollars for recovery and reconstruction.
Officials said the demand is not about charity but about accountability for climate-related losses suffered by countries with low historical emissions.
Nepal's Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal named China, the United States and India among the world's largest greenhouse gas emitters and said vulnerable countries should receive support for climate damage.
However, India has maintained that climate responsibility must consider historical emissions, per capita emissions and the development needs of developing nations.
The deadly floods have renewed discussions over climate change, Himalayan vulnerability and the responsibility of major economies.
Nepal is now seeking international assistance not only for immediate relief but also for long-term rebuilding, infrastructure recovery and protection against future climate disasters.
