Tag: featured

Following the Bhote Koshi flood, two technicians trapped in the underground structure of the Upper Trishuli-3A Hydroelectric Project have been rescued alive. Throughout the rescue operation, the team had to repeatedly revise their plans due to tunnel conditions, water and silt pressure, large boulders, and limited equipment. Geotechnical engineer Udayaraj Nyaupane voluntarily joined the field efforts, managing the technical aspects of the rescue using his own and gathered tools.

During the operation, the tunnel’s condition—with water and silt pressure, obstacles from large rocks and the structure itself, and the scarcity of equipment—forced the team to adapt their strategy multiple times. Nyaupane remarked, “After the disaster, I was contemplating how best to contribute aid.” He made the decision to bring his own equipment to the site.

While there was an expectation that someone might still be alive inside the tunnel, the exact situation was unknown. Nyaupane noted, “It was observed that the upper area of the tunnel was free from water and had some empty space.” The Nepal Electricity Authority had informed that 42 people were present there.

The team selected the cable duct for the rescue because draining efforts confirmed that the cable tunnel extended to the upper section. Nyaupane explained, “If there were people inside, the likelihood was higher that they would be in the upper part.” The operation involved battling water pressure and large boulders. Ultimately, upon finding two survivors, Nyaupane said, “That was a moment of immense relief.”

The collapse of a 100-meter section of road into the Trishuli River at Krishnabhir has blocked the Prithvi Highway for 12 days. This blockade has caused shortages of gas, sugar, and other essential items in Kathmandu, along with a rise in black-market activities. The Prime Minister’s Office has reported that work is underway to open a 200-meter track to resume highway operations within the month of Bhadra.

Kathmandu, 25 Bhadra — It has been 12 days since the city’s lifeline, the Prithvi Highway, was cut off due to the collapse of a 100-meter stretch of road at Krishnabhir into the Trishuli River. The highway’s closure has disrupted the main road network linking the federal capital, significantly impacting the daily flow of essential goods and passenger travel. Tourist routes between Kathmandu and the tourism hub of Pokhara have also been obstructed. Consequently, Kathmandu’s supply chain has broken down, resulting in shortages of gas, sugar, and other essentials along with increased black marketing.

The incident led to the resignation of Minister for Industry, Commerce and Supplies, Gaurikumar Yadav; however, the problems persist. Experts argue that the absence of alternative routes connecting such a densely populated region has turned this 100-meter road collapse into a severe crisis.

Former infrastructure expert and ex-Secretary Keshav Kumar Sharma explains that the government’s current efforts to reopen the Prithvi Highway involve a last-resort solution—constructing an alternative track on the landslide site to temporarily restore traffic flow. The alternative routes prescribed by the government—Kanti Lokmarg, Tribhuvan Rajpath, and BP Highway—are technically unsuitable for heavy and large vehicles, which has prevented gas trucks from reaching Kathmandu. As a result, gas cylinders now have to be transported from the Terai region, compounding shortages and inflation.

Sharma notes, “There is no other option than the current effort to reopen Krishnabhir, but the overreliance on a single highway has revealed significant vulnerabilities.” Even if the road reopens promptly, landslide risks remain high due to additional fissures above the newly cleared track, threatening further collapses during heavy rain or dry conditions. Krishnabhir is a historically active landslide zone.

According to Sharma, long-term solutions such as constructing two bridges to divert the road alongside the Trishuli River, building retaining walls by stabilizing the slopes near the riverbank, or creating a tunnel could take 6 months to 2 years. The government delayed its decision to clear a new track until three days after the landslide, which slowed reopening efforts.

Additional hardships due to ineffective alternative routes

The government is constructing an expressway connecting Kathmandu to the Terai-Madhesh region, contracted to the Nepalese Army. The 70.97-kilometer expressway was inaugurated on Jestha 14, 2074 B.S., with plans to complete and operationalize it by the end of Chaitra this year. However, progress remains below 50 percent due to disputes over the starting point near Kathmandu.

Tribhuvan Rajpath, under construction since 2007, serves as a major alternative for large vehicles despite inadequate infrastructure. BP Highway has been deteriorated by floods for a long time, causing persistent problems. The Kanti Lokpath alternative suffers from weak infrastructure and is suitable only for small vehicles. Currently, freight traffic from Hetauda to Kathmandu uses Tribhuvan Rajpath going uphill and Kanti Lokpath on the return route, though both roads are in poor condition.

The government’s reactive approach to finding alternative roads only during crises continues to cause severe hardship for passengers, consumers, drivers, transport administrators, and police alike.

Efforts Underway to Reopen Prithvi Highway Within Bhadra

According to a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office on Thursday, no exact reopening date for the Prithvi Highway has been determined yet. However, work is in progress to allow transportation services to resume within the Bhadra month. A 200-meter section of hillside is being cut to open a new track, with 10 machines and 30 personnel assigned to the task. The Armed Police Force has installed floodlights to enable night work.

The office also reported accelerated efforts to stabilize the landslide area from above and below the new track. Additionally, landslide clearance operations are underway at five other locations to facilitate two-way traffic. Discussions on immediate road repairs were held between Prime Minister Balen Shah and Infrastructure Minister Sunil Lamsal. Technical professionals from the Department of Roads and the Nepal Geotechnical Society conducted a four-day study before recommending the opening of a new track.

Lessons Learned Yet Challenges Persist

Frequent landslides along the Muglin-Narayangadh road section have repeatedly forced the government to designate alternate routes between Hetauda and Kathmandu, including the Tribhuvan Rajpath. Last year, a dry landslide near Tuiun Khola blocked this section during the Dashain festival, disrupting traffic and affecting east-west travel.

Three travel options exist between Hetauda and Kathmandu: first, the Tribhuvan Rajpath via Hetauda-Palung-Naubise-Kathmandu, which recently suffered a new landslide near Nagdhunga; a tunnel is under construction to replace this track. Second is the Kanti Lokpath connecting Hetauda-Thingn-Satdobato, and third is the Sanguro road linking Hetauda-Kulekhani-Pharping. The latter two are suitable only for two-wheelers and small vehicles. Despite issues on the BP Highway linking eastern Nepal with Kathmandu, these alternatives are often used. However, the government has not sufficiently strengthened or maintained these routes, causing the same recurrent problems annually.

Malaysia has added 250 manpower agencies to its Foreign Worker Central Management System (FWCMS) as sub-agents, at a time when its list allowing only 25 manpower companies to recruit workers from Nepal has sparked controversy. The Nepal Association of Foreign Employment Agencies has criticized the decision to grant permission to a limited number of companies, calling it a violation of the principle of equality and urging for transparent criteria. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Youth, Labour and Employment has sent a diplomatic note concerning the expanded list and warned that agencies included without proper authorization will face legal action.

Kathmandu, 11 September — Malaysia initially published a list permitting only 25 manpower companies in Nepal to recruit workers, igniting widespread opposition. Recently, it registered an additional 250 companies as sub-agents under the main contractors within the FWCMS. Previously, only 25 manpower companies were listed as primary contractors. According to Dika Bahadur Khatri, president of the Nepal Association of Foreign Employment Agencies, Malaysia has linked up to 10 sub-agent manpower companies under each of the 25 main contractors.

Khatri commented, “It seems the number was increased to attract the government’s attention. Ultimately, it appears they plan to implement a model similar to that used in Bangladesh.” The publication of the initial 25-company list by Malaysia met with significant resistance in Nepal, including requests from some included agencies seeking removal of their names from the Ministry of Youth, Labour and Employment’s list. Khatri asserts that adding 250 companies will not resolve the underlying issues, noting that with over a thousand foreign employment agencies operating in Nepal, restricting work permits to a few companies violates Nepalese law and constitutional principles of equality.

September 11, Kathmandu – Apple has unveiled the highly anticipated Apple Watch Series 12 at its annual September launch event. Alongside the iPhone 18 series, the first foldable iPhone Duo, and the Apple Watch Ultra 4, the company introduced the new Series 12 model to the market. While the external design remains similar to previous models, Apple has made significant upgrades to its internal hardware, processor, and health-related sensors.

New S11 Chip and Faster Siri AI: Apple has moved on from the S10 chip used in the past two generations to introduce the new S11 processor. This chip features a faster CPU, GPU, and neural engine. With watchOS 27 and Siri AI improvements, the new chip allows the smartwatch to respond more smoothly and rapidly. It can easily answer complex, context-based user queries and extract instant information from Apple’s native apps.

Battery and Sensors: The heart rate monitoring technology is now more accurate and capable of capturing measurements more frequently, though Apple maintains its claim of a 24-hour battery life. The AI-driven ‘Audio Intelligence’ feature is one of the most compelling additions in Series 12. This feature can listen to surrounding conversations, record them, and summarize key points. According to Apple, these conversations are stored only on the device and when processed in the cloud, neither the company nor any team has access.

New Readiness App for Health and Fitness: Apple has enhanced health and recovery tracking for users. The Readiness app analyzes sleep, stress, and recovery data to inform users whether they are ready for intense workouts or need rest. The redesigned Health app uses AI and biometrics to offer daily health recommendations. It includes features to measure VO2 max using the camera and even order blood tests through the app.

Design, Colors, and Variants: Although the traditional rectangular design is maintained, Apple has introduced new finishes and bands. Available colors include Black, Silver, Gold, and a new Bronze aluminum finish. For the first time since the Series 5 of 2019, Apple has reintroduced the ceramic case option with this edition.

Pricing and Availability: While Apple increased prices for the iPhone 18 Pro series, the Series 12 maintains its price point. Pre-orders for these smartwatches are already open. The Apple Watch Series 12 (42mm aluminum Wi-Fi) starts at $399, while the Apple Watch Ultra 4 is priced from $799.

September 11, Kathmandu – The government has identified real estate, precious metals, digital currencies, and legal entities as the primary sectors vulnerable to money laundering. This year, the government has highlighted significant risks associated with digital currencies through a comprehensive analysis. A detailed assessment was conducted on potential risk areas for money laundering and terrorist financing activities. According to the evaluation report, the highest risk sectors in Nepal include real estate, precious metals, digital currencies, and legal persons.

The Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers carried out this risk assessment following the action plan issued by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF). Although a similar evaluation was performed in 2020, fintech and digital currencies were not included then. However, the 2026 risk assessment report now incorporates an extensive review of the fintech sector along with the identification of risks. The report notes moderate risk levels in banking, cooperatives, fintech, casinos, remittances/hundi, and the securities sectors.

The assessment states that the likelihood of criminal activities and terrorist financing through these sectors remains low. A Nepal Rastra Bank official involved in the process explained that the Office of the Prime Minister collaborated with relevant ministries, the Financial Information Unit, and other agencies in conducting the money laundering and terrorist financing risk assessment. “This evaluation was carried out by domestic experts in cooperation with the World Bank,” the official added, “and was performed in line with the FATF action plan given to Nepal.”

According to the official, Nepal shows a high risk mainly in money laundering, while the risk of terrorist and criminal financing remains comparatively low. Nepal has been on the FATF grey list for about one and a half years due to insufficient implementation of effective reforms. The FATF has provided a two-year action plan, which includes periodic risk assessments of the country’s vulnerabilities.

The fourth general assembly of NAS-IT has elected nine board members for the next three years. Dipen Chapagain, Country Director of Guardsix Nepal, has been appointed as the chairman for the term 2026–2029. The new committee aims to strengthen collaboration with member companies, government, educational institutions, development partners, and international stakeholders. Kathmandu, 25 Bhadra.

The Nepal Association for Software and IT Services Companies (NAS-IT) recently held its fourth annual general assembly, electing nine board members to serve a three-year term. For the period 2026–2029, Dipen Chapagain of Guardsix Nepal was selected as the chairman. Additionally, Vibhushan Bisht, Executive Chairman of Young Innovations, was elected as vice chairman; Shreya Shrestha, General Manager at Alaya Nepal, as general secretary; and Sagar KC, CEO of Jesper IT, as treasurer.

The remaining five board members include Kailash Raj Bijayanand, Chief Operating Officer of Lipfrog Technology; Narayan Koirala, Managing Director of Eminence Wage; Pallav Parajuli, CEO of Quickfox Consulting; Prarthana Sakha, Co-founder of BIC Technology; and Subrat Gyawali, Co-founder of Ripplebytes Solutions. The newly elected officers and board have pledged to continue the organization’s long-term vision to develop and expand Nepal’s technology sector.

The new committee has also expressed commitment to further enhance cooperation with NAS-IT’s member companies, government bodies, educational sectors, development partners, and international stakeholders. NAS-IT is a non-profit industry organization representing Nepal’s software and IT services companies. It works in policy advocacy, industry development, talent and workforce growth, accessing international markets, and fostering collaboration to strengthen Nepal’s technology ecosystem. The organization also organizes roadshows to promote Nepali companies abroad.

Summary of the News

Dipak Kumar Sah, a Rastriya Swatantra Party (Raswap) lawmaker elected from Sunsari-4, has been recommended as the Minister of Industry, Commerce, and Supplies. Prime Minister Balen Shah has proposed his name to fill the vacant ministerial position. The oath-taking ceremony is scheduled to take place today at 5:30 PM at the President’s Office, Sheetal Niwas.

25 Bhadra, Kathmandu: Dipak Kumar Sah, elected from Sunsari-4 representing the Rastriya Swatantra Party, has been officially recommended for the post of Minister of Industry, Commerce, and Supplies. His recommendation letter has been submitted to the President’s Office at Sheetal Niwas. Following the Prime Minister’s recommendation, the President will make the official appointment. In this context, Prime Minister Balen Shah proposed his name today to fill the currently vacant ministry post. Gauri Yadav resigned from this ministerial position earlier the same day. According to the President’s Office, Dipak Kumar Sah will take the oath of office and secrecy at 5:30 PM today.

Devyani International Nepal Pvt Ltd, the franchise operator of KFC in Nepal, has contributed NPR 3.1 million to the Prime Minister’s Disaster Relief Fund to support those affected by the Bhotekoshi flood. The company collected NPR 1 million from each of its 31 KFC stores, which has been allocated for relief and rehabilitation efforts. Devyani International stated that the funds will be utilized to support flood-affected families in Rasuwa and Nuwakot districts.

Operating 31 KFC outlets across Nepal, Devyani International Nepal Pvt Ltd made the donation to assist communities impacted by the Bhotekoshi floods. The total amount of NPR 3.1 million, pooled from contributions of NPR 1 million from each store, is earmarked for rescue, relief, and rehabilitation of affected families in Rasuwa and Nuwakot.

The floods caused not only human casualties but also damage to homes, roads, bridges, and other local infrastructure in these districts. Devyani International Nepal has a history of supporting the Nepali community through various corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives. The company reaffirmed its commitment to stand united with communities during times of need, expressed condolences for the lives lost, and extended heartfelt sympathy to the bereaved families. Additionally, it wished for the swift recovery of those injured. Devyani International Nepal Pvt Ltd is the franchise operator of KFC Nepal and continues to expand its business operations within the country.

Akshay Golyani, Chairman of the Golyani Group, expressed his heartfelt respect for the families of the Janjhi martyrs through an emotional message posted on LinkedIn. The Janjhi Martyrs’ Welfare Society honored him on Tuesday, during which he also met with members of the martyr families. The Golyani Foundation provides educational scholarships up to Grade 12 for 31 children of 22 martyrs and health insurance for 43 parents of 22 martyrs. Kathmandu, 25 Bhadra.

On the occasion of Janjhi Martyrs’ Memorial Day, Golyani noted that the pain of the participating martyr families remains vivid. He wrote, “The faces of everyone gathered bore fresh pain, as if the incident had occurred only yesterday.” He shared that the meeting with the martyr families after the formal program left a profound impact on him. “In that room, amidst tears, there was warmth and affection,” he said.

The Golyani Group, through its social cooperative organization, the Golyani Foundation, has been providing educational scholarships up to Grade 12 for the children of martyrs. Currently, 31 children of 22 martyrs receive these scholarships. The foundation spends 40,000 rupees monthly, totaling 480,000 rupees annually, on their support. Golyani remarked that the collaboration with the martyr families has made them feel like an integral part of the Golyani family.

Kathmandu, September 10 – Many people are aware of the visual and auditory pleasures derived from spending time outdoors in nature. However, recent research has unveiled significant findings regarding the impact of directly touching soil, plants, and trees on human health. A scientific study conducted in Finland reveals that direct contact with soil and natural vegetation increases the diversity of microbes residing on the skin, thereby strengthening the immune system.

In an experiment led by ecologist and nature-health researcher Miira Grönroos from the Finnish Environment Institute, participants applied soil and peat moss to their hands for 20 seconds. Even after washing their hands with water, there was a notable increase in both the number and diversity of beneficial bacteria on their skin.

Scientists explain that a balanced mixture of bacteria on the skin helps inhibit the spread of harmful pathogens. Similarly, a two-year study involving Finnish children, led by environmental expert Marja Roslund, yielded comparable results. Children who regularly played in natural environments such as soil and shrubbery-covered yards exhibited greater microbial diversity on their skin after one year compared to those who played in paved or cemented areas.

The research further indicates that an increase in the diversity of certain bacteria, particularly Gammaproteobacteria, correlates with elevated levels of regulatory T cells (a type of white blood cell), which effectively modulate the immune system and reduce the risk of autoimmune diseases.

These benefits of natural contact are not limited to children; studies have confirmed similar effects in adults as well. In one study, adults who grew vegetables indoors during winter using organic soil showed increased bacterial diversity on their skin and higher levels of anti-inflammatory cytokines in their blood, which reduce inflammation. Additionally, research demonstrates that integrating living plants such as “green walls” into office spaces improves employees’ skin health and lowers inflammatory markers in their bloodstream.

Researchers assert that these findings reinforce the “biodiversity hypothesis,” which suggests that a lack of environmental biodiversity has contributed to a rise in immune-related health issues in recent times. Small habits like touching tree bark, sitting on grass, and having direct contact with soil in daily life may have long-term positive effects on health.

September 10, Kathmandu – Researchers from Oxford University have found that regularly drinking very hot beverages such as tea or coffee significantly increases the risk of esophageal cancer. Published in the International Journal of Cancer, this study is considered the largest of its kind to date, analyzing data from nearly one million men and women. According to the research, individuals who consume beverages at temperatures of 65 degrees Celsius or higher have about three times the risk of developing esophageal cancer compared to those who drink them warm.

The study also indicates that drinking six or more cups of hot beverages daily further raises this risk. Scientists explain that consuming very hot liquids damages the inner cells of the esophagus, which can lead to cancer. Lead researcher Dr. Karen Papier noted that previous studies on “mate,” a popular hot herbal drink in South America, yielded similar results. Typically, water boils at 100 degrees Celsius in a kettle and cools to between 90 and 95 degrees Celsius when poured into a cup.

However, a suitable temperature for takeaway coffee or tea is between 49 and 60 degrees Celsius. Although adding milk cools the drink slightly, researchers recommend waiting a few minutes before drinking to ensure safety. Experts also mention that this type of cancer, known as squamous cell esophageal cancer, is rare and poses a low overall risk to the general population. According to the researchers, avoiding very hot drinks could prevent 1 or 2 out of every 10 cases of esophageal cancer. Cancer Research UK points out that smoking and excessive alcohol consumption are the primary causes of esophageal cancer, making quitting smoking and reducing alcohol intake the most effective preventive measures. Common symptoms of esophageal cancer include chest or throat pain, difficulty swallowing food, a burning sensation in the stomach, and weight loss.