A 35-year-old woman, Sita Pokhrel from Dhurkot Rural Municipality-4 in Gulmi, died of scrub typhus while undergoing treatment at the District Hospital in Tamghas. Following accusations from the deceased’s relatives claiming medical negligence, the hospital administration admitted to shortcomings. The hospital has decided to improve patient monitoring and healthcare services for critically ill patients in the future. July 18, Gulmi.
In Gulmi, a woman succumbed to scrub typhus. Sita Pokhrel, approximately 35 years old from Jaisithok, Dhurkot Rural Municipality-4, passed away during treatment at the District Hospital in Tamghas. According to police, Pokhrel was brought to the hospital for treatment on July 14. After initial treatment, doctors advised her to return if symptoms recurred within 72 hours, and she was discharged the same day. However, when her condition worsened again on July 18, she was readmitted to the hospital. During a health examination, doctors declared her dead around 11 a.m., said DSP Birendra Bir Vishwakarma.
After the death, family members accused the doctors of negligence. The hospital admitted that failure to admit the patient was a weakness. Following the fatal incident, the hospital has made several decisions to improve services. The discussions concluded that critically ill patients will be monitored until noon and admitted for treatment if necessary. Additionally, reports of such cases will be prepared and forwarded to relevant authorities for appropriate action.
The hospital administration also stated that they plan to coordinate and hold meetings with stakeholders to better manage patient flow and service arrangements. Training on behavioral improvements and patient-centered care will be provided to doctors, health workers, and staff involved directly in patient treatment. The hospital emphasized that following this death, they will focus on enhancing service delivery, management strengthening, and capacity building among healthcare personnel to prevent such incidents in the future.
In Bunbury, Western Australia, a mother dolphin was observed carrying her deceased calf with her for an extended period a few days ago. During this time, her companion, another female dolphin named ‘Fraggle,’ stayed close by. Dolphins often grieve for several days before letting go of their calves.
The Australian Animal Welfare Research Institute captured this footage using a drone.
The by-election results from three Indian states—Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, and Gujarat—have been announced following polling on July 30. The most notable outcome was in Bihar’s Bakhri constituency, where Prashant Kishor, founder of the Jan Suraj Party, secured a landslide win against BJP candidate Neeraj Kumar.
Prashant Kishor defeated Neeraj Kumar by a margin of 19,246 votes, garnering a total of 63,946 votes compared to Kumar’s 44,700. Bakhri has long been considered a BJP stronghold, having been represented by BJP national president Nitin Navin in five consecutive terms. The seat became vacant after Nitin Navin’s recent election to the state legislative council.
Following his victory, Kishor remarked, “Becoming a legislator won’t turn Bakhri into Bangalore overnight, but within the next two to three months, you will certainly notice improvements here.” He further stated, “The people of Bakhri have sent a clear message to BJP leadership — please choose a capable leader as Bihar’s Chief Minister. Biharis were not born just to be laborers.”
In Madhya Pradesh’s Datia by-election, Congress candidate Ghanshyam Singh defeated BJP’s Ashutosh Tiwari by 6,016 votes, marking Congress’s consecutive second win over the BJP candidate in this seat. The BJP had replaced its former Home Minister Narottam Mishra’s ticket with Tiwari’s candidature, yet Tiwari was defeated even in Mishra’s own stronghold. At polling station number 121, Congress secured 291 votes while BJP was limited to 264 votes.
Meanwhile, in Gujarat’s Manjalpur assembly seat located in Vadodara, the BJP’s Satendrabhai (Satish) Patel maintained the party’s dominance by overwhelming Congress’s Bhikhabhai Rabari with a margin of 30,630 votes.
These three by-elections have triggered celebrations among the victorious parties. Following the crushing defeat of BJP’s stronghold in Bihar, the Jan Suraj Party held a joyous gathering at its Patna office. Similarly, BJP workers in Vadodara celebrated the Manjalpur victory with traditional Garba dance, while Congress rejoiced its win in Bhopal.
Prakashchandra Pariyar, spokesperson of the Rashtriya Swatantra Party (Rastriya Swatantra Party – RASWAPA), stated that the government’s intention is to regulate the educational consultancy sector to establish standards, not to control it. He emphasized that it is incorrect to perceive educational consultants as agents involved in human trafficking and clarified that the new regulations would make these professionals more accountable. Pariyar highlighted that although significant funds flow abroad through students studying overseas, knowledge, skills, and remittances also enter the country, and he pledged the government’s commitment to addressing the issues faced by consultants. Report from 18th Shrawan, Kathmandu.
Speaking at a discussion held on Monday in Kathmandu on the implementation, challenges, and potential collaborations regarding the ‘Educational Consultancy, Language Teaching, and Preparation Classes (Operation and Management) Regulations, 2073,’ Pariyar made clear that the government’s intent was regulation, not control. He criticized the portrayal of consultants as human trafficking agents and said the new framework would enhance their responsibilities and recognize their contributions to the state.
On the issue of substantial funds leaving the country via students studying abroad, Pariyar urged attention to the positive aspects of this phenomenon. He stated, ‘The government is not attempting to control or treat the consultants as adversaries. The goal is to regulate and dignify this sector and bring it under state responsibility. The figure of 1.4 trillion rupees flowing out is just one side of the coin; on the other hand, billions in remittances, knowledge, skills, and higher education degrees also return to the country.’ While acknowledging concerns that increased taxes might raise the cost of studying abroad for students, he argued that this would further increase consultants’ accountability. Pariyar also assured that the government is committed to addressing the challenges and complaints faced by consultants. He stressed the importance of correcting misinterpretations of laws as discussions on constitutional amendments proceed.
Energy Minister Birajbhakta Shrestha highlighted the crucial role of honest and responsible engineers in the nation’s development and prosperity. Minister Shrestha stated, “Every decision, technical suggestion, and signature directly impacts the lives of millions of citizens, thus demanding a strong sense of responsibility.” He also emphasized the expectation from the new generation of engineers to bring innovative thinking, positive energy, and moral courage alongside technical expertise in public service.
On 18th Shrawan in Kathmandu, Minister of Energy, Water Resources, and Irrigation Birajbhakta Shrestha affirmed that the nation’s prosperity, infrastructure development, and quality of public services depend heavily on the roles of skilled, honest, and accountable engineers. Addressing newly inducted engineers at the Secretariat of the Water and Energy Commission Secretariat and the Water Resources and Energy Research Center, he remarked that entering government service is not merely the start of a job but a historic opportunity to dedicate oneself to nation-building. Minister Shrestha reiterated, “Every decision, technical input, and signature affects the lives of millions directly, requiring work with utmost responsibility.”
The minister connected the nation’s development, civilization, and prosperity to engineers’ creativity, research, discipline, and relentless effort. He conveyed that the construction of roads, bridges, power projects, transmission lines, reservoirs, irrigation systems, drinking water infrastructure, industrial structures, and modern cities heavily rely on engineers’ foresight and capabilities. He further stated that alongside knowledge, character holds equal significance in public service, and sometimes moral courage may be even more critical than technical skills in government roles.
If the government approves the draft legislation submitted to parliament, passengers will be entitled to compensation from airlines for domestic flights, similar to international flights.
The bill, registered in the National Assembly, contains provisions to increase air passenger insurance and to mandate compensation to passengers for flight delays caused by airlines.
According to the bill, in the event of a fatal domestic air accident, the airline company must provide a lump sum compensation of 100,000 US dollars (equivalent to approximately 15 million Nepalese rupees) to the victim’s family. Currently, the compensation limit is only 20,000 US dollars.
The proposed law also specifies that the insurance must cover third parties outside the aircraft affected by the air incident. However, it explicitly states that passengers who stow away onboard will not be covered by this insurance policy.
Under What Conditions Is Compensation Provided?
For the first time in Nepal, the legislation proposes that airlines must compensate passengers when flights are delayed due to airline faults, or when passengers suffer injuries or damage to their belongings.
Jay Narayan Acharya, spokesperson for the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, explained that the proposed legislation aims to hold airlines and governmental bodies accountable in protecting passengers’ rights.
“If the flight is delayed for any reason, passengers must be informed in advance. If not, compensation should be provided based on the duration and circumstances of the delay,” said Acharya.
The bill mandates that airlines must notify passengers at least three hours prior to a flight cancellation, delay, or suspension, and provide compensation if the flight does not operate as scheduled.
Photo credit, BBC/Prakash Ghimire
However, Subash Sapkota, Vice President of the Airline Operators Association, remarked that most flight disruptions in Nepal are due to weather and air traffic control issues, not airline faults.
The bill also stipulates that airlines must compensate passengers for lost, damaged, or destroyed baggage or cargo.
Moreover, the bill grants the Director General of the Civil Aviation Authority the power to impose fines ranging from 10,000 to 100,000 Nepalese rupees based on the severity of violations.
If compensation is not paid or the airline fails to secure insurance, fines ranging from one million to 2.5 million Nepalese rupees will be imposed on the airline, as per the bill.
Could Increased Insurance Coverage Lead to Higher Airfares?
Photo credit, BBC/AshokDahal
Sapkota, also CEO of Yeti Airlines, confirmed that airline operators support the provisions proposed in the government’s draft law.
He estimates that with increased insurance coverage and additional liabilities, the insurance cost per airplane seat could rise to about 500 US dollars.
“The annual insurance cost for a 70-seat aircraft could increase up to 35,000 US dollars,” he stated. This new arrangement could raise an airplane’s annual expenses by approximately 5.2 million Nepalese rupees.
Distributing this cost across passengers might elevate the per-passenger airfare by around 40 to 50 Nepalese rupees initially.
“It’s a modest increase and tends to raise indirect rather than direct costs,” he added.
Nonetheless, airline operators have not clearly specified how much airfares will rise due to increased operational costs arising from these changes.
Currently, Nepalese airline tickets only display government taxes. However, once the law is implemented, airlines will be required to transparently disclose fares, airport service charges, and other applicable government fees.
When Is Compensation Not Provided?
Photo credit, BBC/Prakash Ghimire
The bill identifies three primary scenarios where compensation for delays is not applicable.
First, adverse weather or natural disasters causing disruptions. Second, delays due to airport operations or air traffic control issues. Third, instances where security authorities or the flight permission authority have prohibited departure for safety reasons. In these cases, airlines are exempt from providing compensation for delays.
Regarding who will verify the cause of flight delays, ministry spokesperson Acharya stated, “The Civil Aviation Authority and its Director General have the authority to hear complaints and impose fines. If the issue remains unresolved, the ministry will intervene.”
Airlines may not be obligated to compensate if injury or disability arises from passenger negligence.
Similarly, compensation will not be granted if injury or death results from pre-existing serious illnesses.
What Was the Previous Practice Regarding Compensation?
Photo credit, BBC/Ashok Dahal
According to Subash Sapkota, Vice President of the Airline Operators Association, previously airlines compensated for passenger baggage damages on an agreement basis, without a legal framework.
This bill introduces the first legal proposal to provide compensation for delays. It also mandates that passengers must collect their luggage within three days; failure to do so counts as delayed baggage.
If the baggage remains unclaimed even after 15 days past the stipulated period, it is presumed lost cargo, and compensation must be provided to the shipper or recipient.
When Will It Take Effect?
The bill currently registered in the National Assembly is a proposed law.
It must be passed by both houses of Nepal’s federal parliament — the National Assembly and the House of Representatives.
Once approved by parliament, the Speaker will certify and forward it to the President for final approval.
Typically, the law does not go into effect immediately upon presidential certification after parliamentary approval.
The bill clarifies that it will come into force 31 days after presidential certification.
According to statistics from Tribhuvan International Airport, nearly 150,000 people travel by domestic air monthly within Nepal.
This law is expected to further safeguard air passenger rights and the security of their belongings.
Ministry spokesperson Acharya stated, “It will ensure passengers’ rights and make air services in Nepal more quality-oriented and risk-free.”
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The International Cricket Council (ICC) has imposed an eight-year ban on American cricketer Bodugum Akhilesh Reddy on charges of corruption. Reddy was found guilty of match-fixing and obstructing investigations during the Abu Dhabi T10 League 2025. The ban is effective from November 21, 2025, and he will be barred from participating in all forms of cricket activities. Dated August 4, Kathmandu.
The ICC’s Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU) tribunal found Reddy guilty of violating three counts of the ACU code of conduct, leading to a comprehensive ban on all cricket-related activities. The sanction officially starts from November 21, 2025, the same day he was provisionally suspended.
The allegations against Reddy pertain to the Abu Dhabi T10 League 2025 held in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The Emirates Cricket Board had appointed the ICC as the official anti-corruption body (DACO) for this tournament. The tribunal concluded that Reddy attempted to manipulate match outcomes and influence other parties unfairly, incited another participant to participate in match-fixing, and obstructed the investigation by deleting relevant data and messages from his mobile device.
Not applying sunscreen after makeup can cause skin tanning, minor spots, and faster aging.
Dermatologists recommend reapplying sunscreen with sprays or powders that do not disturb makeup, which is the most effective way.
Most women apply light makeup before heading to the office, college, or other activities to enhance their facial appeal. However, many are unsure about how to apply sunscreen after makeup.
Some women avoid reapplying sunscreen throughout the day fearing it will ruin their makeup. This can lead to skin damage from ultraviolet (UV) rays, resulting in tanning, spots, premature aging, and other skin problems.
Skin specialists advise that applying sunscreen only once in the morning is insufficient. Prolonged exposure to sunlight requires reapplying sunscreen every two to three hours. Many are unaware of the correct way to reapply sunscreen without disturbing makeup. When done properly, sunscreen application does not affect makeup and maintains both protection and aesthetics.
Sunscreen Can Be Applied Even After Makeup
Previously, many women hesitated to reapply sunscreen during hot weather fearing it would spoil their makeup. However, with the right type of sunscreen and proper technique, it is possible to apply sunscreen even after makeup.
Especially during summer, monsoon, or long outdoor activities, not applying sunscreen can result in tanning, spots, and other skin concerns. Therefore, protecting the skin is more important than makeup.
Sunscreen Spray: An Excellent Option
For those who want to apply sunscreen without disturbing their makeup, spray sunscreens are highly suitable. Hold the spray about 15–20 centimeters away from the face and spray evenly. Allow a few minutes for it to dry before touching the face or wearing a mask.
Care should be taken to avoid spray contact with the eyes.
Sunscreen Powder: Another Effective Alternative
Sunscreen powders available on the market are also excellent for makeup users. Using a light brush, the powder can be evenly applied to the face. It not only provides sun protection but also absorbs excess oil and sweat, helping makeup stay fresh longer. This is especially beneficial for oily skin types.
Choosing the Right SPF
Experts recommend using broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 for daily use. For extended sun exposure, SPF 50 products are preferable. It’s essential to select sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays.
Tips to Prolong Makeup Wear
Spending long hours outdoors or sweating in hot weather can cause makeup to melt. Avoid rubbing the face or vigorously wiping with wet wipes, as this can remove both makeup and sunscreen. Instead, use blotting papers or a clean tissue to gently absorb sweat by pressing lightly. Reapply sunscreen spray or powder as needed to keep makeup looking fresh and clean.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
– Using heavy cream sunscreens in large amounts under makeup instead of other alternatives. – Washing the face repeatedly after sweating vigorously. – Using expired or unauthorized sunscreen products. – Assuming that one application of sunscreen in the morning provides all-day protection. – Believing sunscreen is unnecessary on cloudy days or indoors, despite UV rays penetrating windows.
Prioritize Skin Protection
Healthy skin is more important than flawless makeup. Do not skip sunscreen out of fear of ruining makeup. Choose the right sunscreen suited for your skin type and reapply as needed to protect your skin from harmful sun rays while keeping your makeup intact and long-lasting.
For women spending the day outdoors, sunscreen sprays or powders are the most convenient and effective options.
Violent clashes have continued unabated in Pakistan-administered Kashmir since last month, with a notable escalation in recent days. Foreign journalists are only allowed entry into this region, which Pakistan refers to as ‘Azad Kashmir,’ if they obtain special permission. Currently, the BBC has not received such authorization, making it challenging to independently investigate and report on the real situation and developments there.
BBC correspondent Carrie Davis provides insights about the current situation through a video description, shedding light on the ongoing unrest and its underlying causes. This video offers a valuable perspective for those seeking to understand the complexities of the conflict in the region.
Photo Credit: Narendra KC After a long struggle, the police managed to capture an elderly buffalo that had escaped from a slaughterhouse. It was your fault for being naive. It was your fault for being helpless and vulnerable. It was your fault for being non-human. If you had been human, the police wouldn’t have treated you with such harshness.
Throughout your life, you were tied with a single rope, providing milk. You bore calves. You gave manure. When you grew old, your owner sent you to the slaughterhouse. There, you faced impending death.
Fearing the danger, you ran away. You ran and ran, but how far could you go? In your agonized state, you may have pushed aside those who tried to stop you. People said, “The buffalo caused terror.” But whose terror was it really? Nobody looked at this from your perspective. Because in the human kingdom, no court grants justice to a solitary creature like you.
You bore all the blame for the mistake. Here, humans cannot be insulted, but you could be cruelly slain. Because this country is not yours. This society is not yours. You have no kingdom, no power, no courtroom.
You are but empty. Life was given to you by nature to live, but no one allowed you to survive here. When you tried to live, humans perhaps felt their rights were being violated. So they used all their strength to capture you.
Eventually, you tired from running and hid in a chicken coop. But humans never let you go. The police captured you. You couldn’t run anymore, couldn’t resist.
They bound ropes around your head, your neck, your mouth, and your legs. They tied you so tightly, making escape impossible. Your aging body, weary after running for four days. What could you have done? Silently, you collapsed.
Humans did whatever they wanted, and you let it happen. What right did you have to refuse? What power did you possess? Being powerless like you is the greatest misfortune in this world.
Local tensions have calmed following reports that the temporary embankment constructed by residents on Nepalese territory in Susta, West Nawalparasi to prevent the Narayani River’s erosion, was dismantled by Indian authorities, according to local administration.
However, after the structure was destroyed, locals have expressed concern that the increased flow of water in the Narayani River could lead to flooding in their settlements.
The dispute arose when Indian authorities obstructed efforts to pile earth and sand to raise the riverbanks at potential erosion sites, leading to a brief confrontation between both parties on Sunday.
India has consistently blocked the construction of any permanent structures in the border area without bilateral agreement.
Locals from Susta have expressed dissatisfaction, emphasizing that they were merely repairing previously built temporary embankments collectively rather than creating new ones, but faced obstruction.
Risk of Flooding in Settlements
Photo credit: BABU KHAN
“At the spot where the embankment was initially constructed, we had raised the height to prevent Narayani River waters from seeping through,” local resident Munna Khan told the BBC. “After the Indian side dismantled it on Sunday, the risk of water entering the settlements has increased.”
Though the authorities of both countries are expected to engage in further discussions to reduce the risk, locals report that the Indian Border Security Force (BSF) refused to allocate time for talks on Monday.
Chief District Officer of West Nawalparasi, Deepkaraj Nepal, confirmed that no discussions took place on Monday.
“There was some disagreement between both sides yesterday. However, the situation has calmed down due to efforts by Nepalese security forces. Coordination and discussions continue as necessary, but no separate meeting was held on Monday,” he stated.
Occasionally, flooding causes the Narayani River to change its course, leading to Susta’s eastern region becoming a disputed area between Nepal and India.
What is the Dispute?
For years, as the Narayani River eroded Nepalese land, the government of Nepal had been constructing embankments along the river’s eastern bank in recent years to prevent further erosion.
During the tenure of then-Prime Minister Sushila Karki, a budget was approved and a contract awarded to construct approximately 300 meters of embankments.
According to boundary expert Buddhi Narayan Shrestha, when 132 meters of embankments had been built, controversial remarks by then-Prime Minister Balendra Shah sparked Indian opposition to the project.
“In this context, locals independently took temporary initiatives by building a temporary embankment to stop the water flow, which triggered dispute and unrest between both sides on Sunday,” he explained.
A few months ago, during a parliamentary question session, Prime Minister Shah acknowledged, “After becoming prime minister, I realized that not only India but Nepal has also encroached upon Indian land.”
According to Teknarayan Upadhyay, chairperson of Susta Rural Municipality, following the controversial statements, the Indian side obstructed the project, leading the contractor to halt embankment construction.
“When government work stopped, villagers tried temporarily to control the water flow by placing bamboo fences and sacks of sand,” he said. “However, the structures they built were also dismantled.”
Chief District Officer Nepal added that the embankments constructed by locals were managed by the Nepalese Armed Police Force as well. “Since it’s close to the border, these measures were taken. People from there have managed it similarly.”
Following Sunday’s incident, locals are terrified at the prospect of Narayani water flooding their settlements, as explained by Babu Khan, an advisor to the ‘Save Susta Campaign.’
“Half of the monsoon season remains. Sometimes floods also come in the later months. The water hasn’t reached here yet, but we are living in fear,” he remarked.
Efforts to Find a Solution
Due to the Narayani River’s changing course, a long-standing boundary dispute exists in the Susta area. Both Nepal and India claim jurisdiction over the region.
Boundary expert Shrestha explains that according to the 1816 Sugauli Treaty, the Narayani River flowed from north to south. However, due to the river’s shifting course, some regions in the eastern part were lost, with India currently occupying about 145 square kilometers of territory.
“Nepal has asserted that according to the permanent boundary agreement, even if the river changed its course, the eastern territory remains part of Nepal. However, India claims the eastern territory as its own, using the river’s shifted course as the border,” he said.
The absence of boundary pillars along 24 kilometers of the riverbank has added to the complexity of the issue.
Both countries’ authorities have acknowledged the boundary dispute in the region, but progress on resolving it remains limited.
In 2014, during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Nepal, a three-tier mechanism was established to address boundary issues. This encompasses a high-level Boundary Working Group, a survey team led by deputy directors of the survey departments, and a field survey team led by local administrators from both Nepal and India.
Boundary expert Shrestha said he is unaware of any serious discussions on resolving boundary disputes since the COVID-19 pandemic began.
“Nepal must prepare seriously for the forthcoming Survey Official Committee meeting, which was scheduled soon. Initial tasks include mapping the river according to the Sugauli Treaty.”
Survey department spokesperson Dayanand Joshi confirmed that the meeting will be held in India towards the end of the monsoon season. The agenda and Nepal’s lead representative are yet to be finalized.
“This is a routine technical meeting. The ongoing disputes related to the boundary and issues like Susta will not be discussed in this session,” Joshi stated.
Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal has reiterated that boundary issues will be resolved through the established bilateral mechanisms.
“We plan to pursue these matters seriously based on facts, evidence, and necessity. Some issues may take time to resolve,” Minister Khanal told the BBC in an interview.
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August 4 – A week after threatening military action against Iran, US President Donald Trump has unexpectedly agreed to negotiate. An announcement was made regarding talks with Iran and the preparation of a draft agreement. Following Trump’s statement, international crude oil prices have fallen. The announcement has raised expectations that supply through the Strait of Hormuz will be smoother, leading to a decline in oil prices on Monday.
By 12:15 PM on Monday, crude oil prices had dropped between 5 and 6 percent. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude oil fell 6.37 percent to $79.28 per barrel. Similarly, Brent crude oil declined by 5.54 percent to $83.07 per barrel, and Murban crude oil decreased by 6.57 percent to $79.87 per barrel. This change in international oil prices is expected to impact the price of refined petroleum products worldwide, including in Nepal.
However, in Nepal, petroleum product prices were increased starting last night. Petrol prices rose by NPR 3 per liter, diesel and kerosene by NPR 5 per liter, and aviation fuel by NPR 20 per liter. As a result, petrol and diesel prices in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Dipayal have reached NPR 200 per liter, while in Surkhet and Dang prices stand at NPR 199 per liter. In addition, in Charali, Biratnagar, Jakpur, Amlekhganj, Bhalwari, Dhangadhi, and Birgunj, these prices have risen to NPR 197.50 per liter.
The Nepal Volleyball Association (NVBA) has released its annual calendar for the fiscal year 2083/84. This year, Nepal plans to host three significant international tournaments under the Central Asian Volleyball Association (CAVA), including the Women’s Champions League. The association has also decided to organize the 35th National Men’s and 25th National Women’s Volleyball Championships in Surkhet. The program was presented during an event held in Kathmandu on 18 Shrawan, detailing national competitions, international participation, and tournaments to be held within Nepal.
According to the calendar, Nepal will host three international tournaments sanctioned by CAVA this year. These are the CAVA Women’s Champions League, the CAVA Men’s Volleyball Championship (which carries world ranking points), and the CAVA Challenge Cup for men. The calendar also incorporates Nepal’s participation in the 20th Asian Games volleyball tournament for the women’s team, which will take place in Japan.
On the national front, the 35th National Men’s and 25th National Women’s Volleyball Championships will be held in Surkhet. The 10th NVBA Men’s and Women’s Volleyball Championship will take place in Kathmandu. Additionally, the Prime Minister’s Cup NVBA Men’s and Women’s Volleyball League, the 7th Women’s and 8th Men’s National Beach Volleyball Championships, the U-19 National Volleyball Competition, and franchise tournaments such as the Everest Women’s Volleyball League and Men’s Nepal Volleyball League are included in the calendar.
Furthermore, the association has announced the schedule for the U-18 Inter-School Volleyball Competition, national referee and coach training courses, friendly matches, and the Three Nations Cup. Notably, the CAVA Women’s Champions League hosted by Nepal is scheduled from November 1 to 7 in Kathmandu.
The incident at Broad Peak, where 10 climbers including record-setting Nepalese mountaineers lost their lives, is regarded as the greatest tragedy experienced by the Nepalese mountaineering community following two separate fatal accidents on Mount Everest in 2014 and 2015. According to former Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA) president Ang Tshering Sherpa, the avalanche in Pakistan “is the largest single incident the Nepalese climbing community has witnessed abroad during commercial expeditions.” He noted, “It is considered the worst event after the 2014-15 accidents.” Mountaineering of high peaks in Nepal began in the 1950s. After the first successful ascent of Mount Everest in 1953, climbing activities accelerated in the Khumbu region. However, even prior to this, Nepalese climbers had participated in ascents abroad and experienced significant tragedies, resulting in loss of lives.
Mountaineering researcher Anish Dahal pointed out that the climbers who died in the Broad Peak avalanche were internationally recognized experts. Their absence has deeply affected the climbing community. He stated, “This incident reminded the entire mountaineering community of the harsh truth that ultimately, it is the mountain that decides.” Former NMA president Ang Tshering Sherpa said that despite the extensive experience and knowledge of Nepalese climbers on the Pakistani mountains, this time they “did not have fortune on their side.” “Avalanches and rapid weather changes are common there, and climbers prepare accordingly. But this time, they could not escape fate,” he added.
Twelve years earlier, in 2014, an avalanche above Everest Base Camp at Khumbu Icefall resulted in the deaths of 16 climbers. Similarly, in 2015, an earthquake triggered another avalanche that devastated the normally considered safe base camp within minutes, killing about 22 people. During the same decade, at the beginning of 2023, three Sherpa climbers went missing in the Khumbu Icefall and were later declared dead by authorities.
Researcher Anish Dahal further explained that the nature of mountaineering fatalities has evolved since the start of commercial climbing. “Prior to commercial expeditions, most deaths occurred due to falls into crevasses, avalanches, or snowstorms. In recent years, fatalities have involved a wider range of circumstances, with personal health-related issues playing a more significant role,” he said.
Since the restoration of multiparty democracy in Nepal in 1990, commercial mountaineering has seen rapid growth. “The government has generally been slow in its response to rescue operations during Himalayan accidents in Nepal. However, mountaineering companies have become increasingly well-equipped, and Sherpas, experienced and trained in rescue work, have contributed to many successful rescues in recent years, saving numerous lives,” noted researcher Medhavi Gulati from Punjab University.
Two helicopters engaged in firefighting efforts in Greece collided in mid-air, resulting in the deaths of two crew members. Among the deceased were a helicopter pilot and a communications officer from Greece’s fire control service. It has been confirmed that the deceased pilot was a Danish national.
The second helicopter made an emergency landing. The British pilot and Greek officials on board sustained minor injuries but survived the incident.
