One person was injured after a huge fire triggered by a gas leak burned down huts at a refugee camp in Jhapa district of Nepal on Sunday. 
 
The campsite fire burned down nine huts and caused a minor injury to one refugee, an official said. 
 
"The fire has been contained now. Gas leakage might have started the fire. We are accessing the damage," Nabin Baral, Ward Chair of Beldangi-2 where the camp is located told ANI over the phone. 
 
An investigation is underway to assess the damage caused by the blaze.

One person was injured after a huge fire triggered by a gas leak burned down huts at a refugee camp in Jhapa district of Nepal on Sunday. The campsite fire burned down nine huts and caused a minor injury to one refugee, an official said.

One person was injured after a huge fire triggered by a gas leak burned down huts at a refugee camp in Jhapa district of Nepal on Sunday. The campsite fire burned down nine huts and caused a minor injury to one refugee, an official said. "The fire has been contained now. Gas leakage might have started the fire. We are accessing the damage," Nabin Baral, Ward Chair of Beldangi-2 where the camp is located told ANI over the phone. An investigation is underway to assess the damage caused by the blaze.

Nepal: Gas leak causes fire and injures one at refugee camp

At least 14 people were killed in a passenger bus accident in Sindhupalchowk district of Nepal on Friday.

As per police, five people died on the spot while others succumbed to injuries in the hospital or en route the facility.

"Five people died on the spot while the remaining ones succumbed to injuries in the hospital and on the way to it," Madhavraj Kafle, Deputy Superintendent of Police, District Police Office, Sindhupalchowk informed ANI over the phone.

"A total of 98 people have been injured in the mishap. 67 of the total injured are undergoing treatment at Dhulikhel Hospital. Sixteen are undergoing treatment at Sheer Memorial Hospital, Fifteen at Trauma Center, Bir Hospital, Kathmandu, One at Nobel Medical College and One at Nobel Hospital," Kafle added.

Police have suspected that the bus was overloaded and that the number of passengers on-board at the time of accident might have exceeded 120.

A tyre puncture is suspected to be the main reason for the accident as it veered off around 100 meters down a slope.

At least 14 people were killed in a passenger bus accident in Sindhupalchowk district of Nepal on Friday. As per police, five people died on the spot while others succumbed to injuries in the hospital or en route the facility.

At least 14 people were killed in a passenger bus accident in Sindhupalchowk district of Nepal on Friday. As per police, five people died on the spot while others succumbed to injuries in the hospital or en route the facility. "Five people died on the spot while the remaining ones succumbed to injuries in the hospital and on the way to it," Madhavraj Kafle, Deputy Superintendent of Police, District Police Office, Sindhupalchowk informed ANI over the phone. "A total of 98 people have been injured in the mishap. 67 of the total injured are undergoing treatment at Dhulikhel Hospital. Sixteen are undergoing treatment at Sheer Memorial Hospital, Fifteen at Trauma Center, Bir Hospital, Kathmandu, One at Nobel Medical College and One at Nobel Hospital," Kafle added. Police have suspected that the bus was overloaded and that the number of passengers on-board at the time of accident might have exceeded 120. A tyre puncture is suspected to be the main reason for the accident as it veered off around 100 meters down a slope.

Nepal: 14 killed, 98 injured in bus accident in Sindhupalchowk district

Nepal has completed the preparations to welcome <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-president-xi-one-on-one-talks-lunch-to-sum-up-mamallapuram-second-india-china-informal-summit-today-255371">Chinese President Xi Jinping</a>.

Nepal government has set up welcome gates at various locations around the capital with the flag of Nepal and China docked on the edge of the road as well as the portrait of the President on the poles.

The two-day stop-over visit of the Chinese President is set to begin from October 12.&nbsp;

As per the schedule, Chinese President Jinping will be landing in capital Kathmandu at around 4:30pm.

Xi is set to hold meetings with Nepal President Bidhya Devi Bhandari at Sheetal Niwas on Saturday evening followed by a dinner hosted by her. He will also hold talks with Nepal's Former Prime Minister and Opposition Party Chairman Sher Bahadur Deuba.

Chinese President Xi will be meeting Pushpa Kamal Dahal "Prachanda" on Sunday morning which will be followed by the signing of agreements.

President Xi is scheduled to depart for China at 1pm on Sunday.

Nepal has completed the preparations to welcome Chinese President Xi Jinping. Nepal government has set up welcome gates at various locations around the capital with the flag of Nepal and China docked on the edge of the road as well as the portrait of the President on the poles.

Nepal has completed the preparations to welcome Chinese President Xi Jinping. Nepal government has set up welcome gates at various locations around the capital with the flag of Nepal and China docked on the edge of the road as well as the portrait of the President on the poles. The two-day stop-over visit of the Chinese President is set to begin from October 12. As per the schedule, Chinese President Jinping will be landing in capital Kathmandu at around 4:30pm. Xi is set to hold meetings with Nepal President Bidhya Devi Bhandari at Sheetal Niwas on Saturday evening followed by a dinner hosted by her. He will also hold talks with Nepal's Former Prime Minister and Opposition Party Chairman Sher Bahadur Deuba. Chinese President Xi will be meeting Pushpa Kamal Dahal "Prachanda" on Sunday morning which will be followed by the signing of agreements. President Xi is scheduled to depart for China at 1pm on Sunday.

Nepal prepares to welcome Chinese President Xi Jinping

Nepal government has set up welcome gates at various locations around the capital with the flag of Nepal and China docked on the edge of the road as well as the portrait of the President on the poles. The two-day stop-over visit of the Chinese President is set to begin from October 12.

Kathmandu set to welcome Chinese President Xi Jinping

Wrapping up a two-day visit to India for an informal summit with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chinese President Xi Jinping left for Nepal on Saturday from Chennai International Airport.

Xi arrived in Chennai on Friday and held "heart-to-heart" and "candid discussions like friends" with Prime Minister Modi.

This was their second informal meeting- the first being in China's Wuhan in April last year.

The Chinese President had landed in Chennai on Friday and held a one-on-one discussion with Modi on various issues in the coastal historic city of Mamallapuram.

They also discussed matters related to trade and the economy.

The two leaders spent five hours of "quality time".The two leaders started the second day of the summit with one-to-one talks which lasted for over an hour.

Xi during the delegation-level talks said that he and Prime Minister Narendra Modi had "heart-to-heart" and "candid discussions like friends" on bilateral ties during the second informal summit here.

They concluded the summit with delegation-level talks between India and China.

Upon his arrival, President Xi was accorded a grand welcome by people who lined the streets along with traditional drum players, creating a warm environment which personified the Indian belief of 'Atithi Devo Bhava'.

Xi said, "We are really overwhelmed by your hospitality. My colleagues and I have felt that very strongly. This will be a memorable experience for me and for us."

Prime Minister Modi took the visiting Chinese dignitary to three iconic monuments - Arjuna's Penance, Krishna's Butter Ball and the Shore Temple in Mamallapuram- before settling down for a colourful performance.

Modi also gave a guided tour of the monuments to Xi.

The two leaders enjoyed a thrilling cultural performance at Shore Temple's complex in the evening.

The programme showcased the Indian classical dance forms of Kathakali and Bharatnatyam to fast-paced Carnatic music, highlighting the region's magnificent roots.Xi will head to Nepal from Chennai.

As per the schedule, he will be landing in capital Kathmandu at around 4:30 PM.

Xi is set to hold meetings with Nepal President Bidhya Devi Bhandari at Sheetal Niwas on Saturday evening followed by a dinner hosted by her.

He will also hold talks with Nepal`sFormer Prime Minister and Opposition Party Chairman Sher Bahadur Deuba.

Chinese President Xi will be meeting Pushpa Kamal Dahal "Prachanda" on Sunday morning which will be followed by the signing of agreements.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Wrapping up a two-day visit to India for an informal summit with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chinese President Xi Jinping left for Nepal on Saturday from Chennai International Airport.

Wrapping up a two-day visit to India for an informal summit with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chinese President Xi Jinping left for Nepal on Saturday from Chennai International Airport. Xi arrived in Chennai on Friday and held "heart-to-heart" and "candid discussions like friends" with Prime Minister Modi. This was their second informal meeting- the first being in China's Wuhan in April last year. The Chinese President had landed in Chennai on Friday and held a one-on-one discussion with Modi on various issues in the coastal historic city of Mamallapuram. They also discussed matters related to trade and the economy. The two leaders spent five hours of "quality time".The two leaders started the second day of the summit with one-to-one talks which lasted for over an hour. Xi during the delegation-level talks said that he and Prime Minister Narendra Modi had "heart-to-heart" and "candid discussions like friends" on bilateral ties during the second informal summit here. They concluded the summit with delegation-level talks between India and China. Upon his arrival, President Xi was accorded a grand welcome by people who lined the streets along with traditional drum players, creating a warm environment which personified the Indian belief of 'Atithi Devo Bhava'. Xi said, "We are really overwhelmed by your hospitality. My colleagues and I have felt that very strongly. This will be a memorable experience for me and for us." Prime Minister Modi took the visiting Chinese dignitary to three iconic monuments - Arjuna's Penance, Krishna's Butter Ball and the Shore Temple in Mamallapuram- before settling down for a colourful performance. Modi also gave a guided tour of the monuments to Xi. The two leaders enjoyed a thrilling cultural performance at Shore Temple's complex in the evening. The programme showcased the Indian classical dance forms of Kathakali and Bharatnatyam to fast-paced Carnatic music, highlighting the region's magnificent roots.Xi will head to Nepal from Chennai. As per the schedule, he will be landing in capital Kathmandu at around 4:30 PM. Xi is set to hold meetings with Nepal President Bidhya Devi Bhandari at Sheetal Niwas on Saturday evening followed by a dinner hosted by her. He will also hold talks with Nepal`sFormer Prime Minister and Opposition Party Chairman Sher Bahadur Deuba. Chinese President Xi will be meeting Pushpa Kamal Dahal "Prachanda" on Sunday morning which will be followed by the signing of agreements.

Chinese President Xi Jinping wraps up Chennai visit, leaves for Nepal

Nepal and China are expected to sign numerous <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-prime-minister-imran-khan-discusses-bilateral-issues-with-chinese-president-xi-jinping-254769">bilateral agreements</a> and Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) during President Xi Jinping's upcoming two-day visit to Kathmandu. 
 
During the visit from October 12 to 13, Xi will be meeting his Nepali counterpart Bidya Devi Bhandari, who will also host a banquet in honour of the visiting dignitary and his delegation, Nepal's Foreign Office said in a statement. 
 
Xi will also hold <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mahabalipuram-preparations-in-full-swing-for-informal-summit-between-modi-jinping-254576">delegation-level official talks</a> with Nepali Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli. The agreements will be signed after the talks, the statement added. 
 
Other senior Nepalese leaders are also slated to meet the Chinese President during his official trip to Kathmandu. 
 
Xi's visit to Nepal will be preceded by his trip to India where the Chinese President will hold an informal summit with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Mahabalipuram from October 11 to 12. 
Both Modi and Xi are expected to hold comprehensive talks on a host of issues concerning the bilateral relations and exchange views on regional and international issues, as per the Ministry of External Affairs.

Nepal and China are expected to sign numerous bilateral agreements and Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) during President Xi Jinping's upcoming two-day visit to Kathmandu.

Nepal and China are expected to sign numerous bilateral agreements and Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) during President Xi Jinping's upcoming two-day visit to Kathmandu. During the visit from October 12 to 13, Xi will be meeting his Nepali counterpart Bidya Devi Bhandari, who will also host a banquet in honour of the visiting dignitary and his delegation, Nepal's Foreign Office said in a statement. Xi will also hold delegation-level official talks with Nepali Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli. The agreements will be signed after the talks, the statement added. Other senior Nepalese leaders are also slated to meet the Chinese President during his official trip to Kathmandu. Xi's visit to Nepal will be preceded by his trip to India where the Chinese President will hold an informal summit with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Mahabalipuram from October 11 to 12. Both Modi and Xi are expected to hold comprehensive talks on a host of issues concerning the bilateral relations and exchange views on regional and international issues, as per the Ministry of External Affairs.

Nepal, China to sign agreements during Xi's upcoming visit

The Nepal Police on September 2 had rounded up six Chinese nationals in Kathmandu for allegedly hacking the security system and withdrawing millions of rupees from various ATM booths.

Some days before the hacking incident, four Chinese nationals were arrested at the end of August for their alleged involvement in the bride trafficking racket. The Nepali operatives working for the Chinese used to lure girls and women from remote parts of Nepal with the promise of providing lucrative jobs in China.

The married Nepali girls were then sold off in an auction as part of the "bride-buying practice" which is prevalent in some parts of China.

On August 5, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/2-foreign-trekkers-missing-in-northern-nepal-253384">Nepal</a>'s International Airport Customs Department had arrested a Chinese national for trying to smuggle one kilogram of gold. Three other Chinese nationals were arrested on April 11 from Tribhuwan International Airport for trying to smuggle three kilograms of the precious yellow metal into the country.

The above-mentioned incidents do not only show the criminal activities in which Chinese nationals are involved but also the frequency of the events, which in turn is making Nepal a gateway for them to conduct their illegal acts.

These incidents not only have become a headache for the Nepal Police but has also increased the potentiality that it would turn Nepal into a fertile land for Chinese nationals to plot and execute their plans.

The Chinese smugglers used to smuggle gold from Tatopani border that joins Nepal with China before the area suffered extensive damage due to the 2015 earthquake, dealing them a setback.

Since then, the Chinese criminals have shifted their attention to smuggle goods at Rasuwa-Kerung border crossing or sometimes carry out their illegal acts at the Tribhuwan International Airport.

Last year, the Nepal Police had confiscated 88 kilograms of gold which was smuggled into the Himalayan nation by making a false flush bottom in a vehicle that had entered from China via Kerung. It was discovered that a Chinese national Wang Wei Ming was behind the incident, but is absconding.

Now, the Chinese criminals have shifted their attention from smuggling gold to high-tech hackings.

"The security of Nepal's banking system is very fragile and the Chinese criminals are working on to get into those loopholes to break into the system. In the disclosed hacking instances, the arrested ones are mainly Chinese. They at first steal the source code and in some cases, they enter the codes into new ATM cards which they use it as a normal client of banks and take out the money," Janakraj Sapkota, analyst and a crime journalist working in a Nepali newspaper told ANI.

"The first and foremost thing is that the bank itself should be aware because we already have entered into the phase of a technological revolution. We have transformed banking into e-banking and we cannot step back from it," Hemanta Malla, former head of Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) of Nepal, told ANI.

On January 14, 2017, Metropolitan Police Crime Division had arrested a Chinese national Ming Xiang and recovered foreign currency. He was on his way to China via the Kerung border point.

In a gap of nine months, the police had arrested another Chinese national with USD 50,000 from the Kerung port.

"They (Chinese criminals) usually steal account details of foreign banks. After stealing it, they load the data at an ATM and the amount which they withdraw was from ATMs of Nepali banks. They only had used our banks as a gateway and the stolen money is not of Nepal, but are of foreign banks and this time they did it in a different way. At this time, they inducted a malware into the gateway used by 14 to 15 banks of Nepal for trying to break the communication," Malla said.

Investigating police officers in the last month's hacking case involving Chinese nationals are facing the problem in communication. Hence, the Chinese criminals take advantage and try to cover up themselves over the cases filed against them.

Janakraj Sapkota, a senior journalist and analyst, said, "After the arrest of Chinese hackers, Nepal Police has been facing problems during the investigation. The Chinese are not replying to questions asked by police and remain silent over time. In many cases, the police also have been facing difficulty communicating with them. As there are different Chinese dialects, it is hard to find a translator. Hence, the Chinese nationals prefer not to answer or remain silent during investigations."

Malla rejected the claims of the Nepal Police in communicating with the Chinese nationals or other foreigners.

"Not only Chinese, but we have also arrested nationals from various countries when I was in CIB. At that time, we use to call translators from the Vishwa Bhasa Campus (a governmental campus teaching multiple foreign languages) and some from the local tuition centers. We even took help of close friends fluent in that particular language," Malla said.

"Take French for example. When talking about Chinese, the best part now is that there are numerous institutes. There are officers inside Nepal Police who can speak Chinese and French as well. Anyone who has been to China or to the Chinese Mission or the French Mission has studied both Chinese and French. So, I would clearly state it to be an excuse when we talk about the language barrier and Nepal is capable of communicating with foreign nationals embroiled in cases," Malla added.

Despite rising criminal incidents by Chinese nationals in Nepal, Kathmandu is yet to take this issue to a higher level. During the recent visit of Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in the Himalayan nation, the matter was not raised by the Nepali side.

"Neither the Foreign Minister nor the Finance Minister dared to talk about the Chinese nationals' involvement in the hacking case in front of the Chinese Foreign Minister. But it is true that the issue was passed to Chinese officials later after Wang Yi wrapped up his visit," a Nepali foreign ministry source told ANI.

"Talks about the visit of Chinese Premier (Li Keqiang) to Nepal is underway and raising the issue might result in the cancellation of the visit. Hence, the Nepali side might not have pressed its issue forward," the source said.

The Nepal Police on September 2 had rounded up six Chinese nationals in Kathmandu for allegedly hacking the security system and withdrawing millions of rupees from various ATM booths.

The Nepal Police on September 2 had rounded up six Chinese nationals in Kathmandu for allegedly hacking the security system and withdrawing millions of rupees from various ATM booths. Some days before the hacking incident, four Chinese nationals were arrested at the end of August for their alleged involvement in the bride trafficking racket. The Nepali operatives working for the Chinese used to lure girls and women from remote parts of Nepal with the promise of providing lucrative jobs in China. The married Nepali girls were then sold off in an auction as part of the "bride-buying practice" which is prevalent in some parts of China. On August 5, Nepal's International Airport Customs Department had arrested a Chinese national for trying to smuggle one kilogram of gold. Three other Chinese nationals were arrested on April 11 from Tribhuwan International Airport for trying to smuggle three kilograms of the precious yellow metal into the country. The above-mentioned incidents do not only show the criminal activities in which Chinese nationals are involved but also the frequency of the events, which in turn is making Nepal a gateway for them to conduct their illegal acts. These incidents not only have become a headache for the Nepal Police but has also increased the potentiality that it would turn Nepal into a fertile land for Chinese nationals to plot and execute their plans. The Chinese smugglers used to smuggle gold from Tatopani border that joins Nepal with China before the area suffered extensive damage due to the 2015 earthquake, dealing them a setback. Since then, the Chinese criminals have shifted their attention to smuggle goods at Rasuwa-Kerung border crossing or sometimes carry out their illegal acts at the Tribhuwan International Airport. Last year, the Nepal Police had confiscated 88 kilograms of gold which was smuggled into the Himalayan nation by making a false flush bottom in a vehicle that had entered from China via Kerung. It was discovered that a Chinese national Wang Wei Ming was behind the incident, but is absconding. Now, the Chinese criminals have shifted their attention from smuggling gold to high-tech hackings. "The security of Nepal's banking system is very fragile and the Chinese criminals are working on to get into those loopholes to break into the system. In the disclosed hacking instances, the arrested ones are mainly Chinese. They at first steal the source code and in some cases, they enter the codes into new ATM cards which they use it as a normal client of banks and take out the money," Janakraj Sapkota, analyst and a crime journalist working in a Nepali newspaper told ANI. "The first and foremost thing is that the bank itself should be aware because we already have entered into the phase of a technological revolution. We have transformed banking into e-banking and we cannot step back from it," Hemanta Malla, former head of Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) of Nepal, told ANI. On January 14, 2017, Metropolitan Police Crime Division had arrested a Chinese national Ming Xiang and recovered foreign currency. He was on his way to China via the Kerung border point. In a gap of nine months, the police had arrested another Chinese national with USD 50,000 from the Kerung port. "They (Chinese criminals) usually steal account details of foreign banks. After stealing it, they load the data at an ATM and the amount which they withdraw was from ATMs of Nepali banks. They only had used our banks as a gateway and the stolen money is not of Nepal, but are of foreign banks and this time they did it in a different way. At this time, they inducted a malware into the gateway used by 14 to 15 banks of Nepal for trying to break the communication," Malla said. Investigating police officers in the last month's hacking case involving Chinese nationals are facing the problem in communication. Hence, the Chinese criminals take advantage and try to cover up themselves over the cases filed against them. Janakraj Sapkota, a senior journalist and analyst, said, "After the arrest of Chinese hackers, Nepal Police has been facing problems during the investigation. The Chinese are not replying to questions asked by police and remain silent over time. In many cases, the police also have been facing difficulty communicating with them. As there are different Chinese dialects, it is hard to find a translator. Hence, the Chinese nationals prefer not to answer or remain silent during investigations." Malla rejected the claims of the Nepal Police in communicating with the Chinese nationals or other foreigners. "Not only Chinese, but we have also arrested nationals from various countries when I was in CIB. At that time, we use to call translators from the Vishwa Bhasa Campus (a governmental campus teaching multiple foreign languages) and some from the local tuition centers. We even took help of close friends fluent in that particular language," Malla said. "Take French for example. When talking about Chinese, the best part now is that there are numerous institutes. There are officers inside Nepal Police who can speak Chinese and French as well. Anyone who has been to China or to the Chinese Mission or the French Mission has studied both Chinese and French. So, I would clearly state it to be an excuse when we talk about the language barrier and Nepal is capable of communicating with foreign nationals embroiled in cases," Malla added. Despite rising criminal incidents by Chinese nationals in Nepal, Kathmandu is yet to take this issue to a higher level. During the recent visit of Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in the Himalayan nation, the matter was not raised by the Nepali side. "Neither the Foreign Minister nor the Finance Minister dared to talk about the Chinese nationals' involvement in the hacking case in front of the Chinese Foreign Minister. But it is true that the issue was passed to Chinese officials later after Wang Yi wrapped up his visit," a Nepali foreign ministry source told ANI. "Talks about the visit of Chinese Premier (Li Keqiang) to Nepal is underway and raising the issue might result in the cancellation of the visit. Hence, the Nepali side might not have pressed its issue forward," the source said.

Nepal turning out to be gateway for Chinese criminals

Once a bustling trading junction on the Silk Route, the ancient city of Kagbeni marks the end of lower Mustang Valley. In this atmospheric old town, Meraj and Johan find million-year-old fossils, and soak in magnificent views of the Annapurna and Nilgiri mountain ranges of the Himalayas.

WION Traveller S3 Episode 8: Kagbeni, a gateway to Upper Mustang

Rescuers are searching for two foreigners who went missing while trekking in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-government-urged-to-limit-climbing-permissions-to-everest-225282">Nepal</a>'s northern district of Rasuwa, near the Tibetan border, since the past 10 days, the police said on Wednesday.

The police said that a 27-year-old Dutch, named Thomas, and a 42-year-old Korean, named Si Sung, have gone missing during an expedition to Tamang Heritage Trail in Rasuwa district.

"A team under my supervision has been deployed to search the missing foreign trekkers.&nbsp;It is in our knowledge that they have gone missing from Thuman area," Deputy Superintendent of Police, Bhagendrapurush Dhakal told ANI.

The two trekkers were last seen on September 22 at Thuman village that lies at an elevation of 1,750 meters.

As per the Tourist Police Outpost at Syaphrubesi, the trekkers were headed towards Tamang Heritage Trail on September 14.

"The search operation has been intensified despite the harsh weather condition that is further triggered by heavy rains," Dhakal added.

Tamang Heritage Trail is in Langtang.

It takes hikers closer to the Tibetan border than any other trail in the area and offers some amazing views into Tibet as well as a great opportunity to experience authentic Tamang culture.

Rescuers are searching for two foreigners who went missing while trekking in Nepal's northern district of Rasuwa, near the Tibetan border, since the past 10 days, the police said on Wednesday.

Rescuers are searching for two foreigners who went missing while trekking in Nepal's northern district of Rasuwa, near the Tibetan border, since the past 10 days, the police said on Wednesday. The police said that a 27-year-old Dutch, named Thomas, and a 42-year-old Korean, named Si Sung, have gone missing during an expedition to Tamang Heritage Trail in Rasuwa district. "A team under my supervision has been deployed to search the missing foreign trekkers. It is in our knowledge that they have gone missing from Thuman area," Deputy Superintendent of Police, Bhagendrapurush Dhakal told ANI. The two trekkers were last seen on September 22 at Thuman village that lies at an elevation of 1,750 meters. As per the Tourist Police Outpost at Syaphrubesi, the trekkers were headed towards Tamang Heritage Trail on September 14. "The search operation has been intensified despite the harsh weather condition that is further triggered by heavy rains," Dhakal added. Tamang Heritage Trail is in Langtang. It takes hikers closer to the Tibetan border than any other trail in the area and offers some amazing views into Tibet as well as a great opportunity to experience authentic Tamang culture.

2 foreign trekkers missing in northern Nepal

The speaker of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nepal-seeks-indias-help-to-strengthen-its-hydropower-sector-250266">Nepal's parliament </a>stepped down on Tuesday after a female employee of the parliament secretariat accused him of rape.

Krishna Bahadur Mahara, a senior member of the ruling Nepal Communist Party said he was stepping down to allow an "impartial and independent investigation into the allegations that have come forward in media reports... until the probe is complete."

A former rebel leader during Nepal's decade-long Maoist insurgency, Mahara has previously served as deputy prime minister and has held several ministerial positions.

In a video interview published by local online news portal&nbsp;<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://hamrakura.com&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1570016429781000&amp;usg=AFQjCNE36Bx4Sw7PvaM3yxlS2Brzpzx5BA" href="http://hamrakura.com/" target="_blank">hamrakura.com</a>, the woman said that an intoxicated Mahara arrived at her rented home on Sunday night and persuaded her to drink alcohol before assaulting her.

"I had not thought it would come to this. He forced himself (on me)... he left after I said I will call the police," she said in the interview. &nbsp;

The woman also showed apparent bruises on her arms, hands and feet.

Police confirmed receiving a call from the alleged victim on Sunday night.

"We are taking forward our investigation and have collected evidence from her house. But she has not filed a case yet," said Shyam Lal Gyawali, spokesman for the Metropolitan police unit.

The evidence includes a bottle of whiskey and a pair of broken spectacles, allegedly belonging to Mahara. &nbsp; &nbsp;

The speaker's name started trending on social media in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-central-bank-issues-three-coins-to-commemorate-guru-nanak-devs-birth-anniversary-252579">Nepal</a> on Tuesday, with many demanding an investigation.

"We will stay watchful. The impartial investigation is must. Position, reach, victim shaming will not be valued," tweeted woman's rights activist Hima Bista.

Activists say more women are speaking up about cases of sexual violence, but also that many still go unreported in deeply patriarchal Nepal.

The speaker of Nepal's parliament stepped down on Tuesday after a female employee of the parliament secretariat accused him of rape. Krishna Bahadur Mahara, a senior member of the ruling Nepal Communist Party said he was stepping down to allow an "impartial and independent investigation into the allegations that have come forward in media reports.

The speaker of Nepal's parliament stepped down on Tuesday after a female employee of the parliament secretariat accused him of rape. Krishna Bahadur Mahara, a senior member of the ruling Nepal Communist Party said he was stepping down to allow an "impartial and independent investigation into the allegations that have come forward in media reports... until the probe is complete." A former rebel leader during Nepal's decade-long Maoist insurgency, Mahara has previously served as deputy prime minister and has held several ministerial positions. In a video interview published by local online news portal hamrakura.com, the woman said that an intoxicated Mahara arrived at her rented home on Sunday night and persuaded her to drink alcohol before assaulting her. "I had not thought it would come to this. He forced himself (on me)... he left after I said I will call the police," she said in the interview. The woman also showed apparent bruises on her arms, hands and feet. Police confirmed receiving a call from the alleged victim on Sunday night. "We are taking forward our investigation and have collected evidence from her house. But she has not filed a case yet," said Shyam Lal Gyawali, spokesman for the Metropolitan police unit. The evidence includes a bottle of whiskey and a pair of broken spectacles, allegedly belonging to Mahara. The speaker's name started trending on social media in Nepal on Tuesday, with many demanding an investigation. "We will stay watchful. The impartial investigation is must. Position, reach, victim shaming will not be valued," tweeted woman's rights activist Hima Bista. Activists say more women are speaking up about cases of sexual violence, but also that many still go unreported in deeply patriarchal Nepal.

Nepal's parliament speaker steps down after rape claim

The Central Bank of Nepal on Friday released three coins to commemorate the birth anniversary of Sikh Guru Nanak Dev. 
 
The coins with denomination of NPR (Nepali Rupees) 100, 1000 and 2500 were jointly launched by Governor of Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) Chiranjibi Nepal and Indian Ambassador to Nepal Manjeev Singh Puri at Hotel Aloft in Kathmandu today. 
 
The coins possess monetary value and its sale will start from September 30, the NRB said. 
 
"Proud to be a Sikh today. Proud to be a follower of Guru Nanak Dev. Today, you can find Sikhs residing in every part of the world that too in large numbers," Puri told the crowd gathered to celebrate the occasion. 
 
Shortly after, Puri took to Twitter saying, "Honoring Nepal's Sikh Heritage Embassy of India releases special publication to mark 550th Birth Anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji." 
 
On the occasion, both dignitaries also launched a book showcasing the Sikh heritage in Nepal. It has been published by BP Koirala India-Nepal Foundation in co-ordination with Embassy of India in Nepal. 
 
Before unveiling the book, Indian head of Mission gave a comprehensive presentation bringing out key aspects of the Sikh heritage in Nepal. 
 
The event was graced by the presence of Jathedar of Akal Takht S. Harpreet Singh, President of Shiromani Gurudwara Prabhandhak Committee-Amritsar S. Gobind Singh Longowal. 
 
A few prominent Sikh leaders from Punjab, including Charanjeet Singh Atwal, and former Deputy Speaker of Lok Sabha also participated in the event.&nbsp;

The Central Bank of Nepal on Friday released three coins to commemorate the birth anniversary of Sikh Guru Nanak Dev. The coins with denomination of NPR (Nepali Rupees) 100, 1000 and 2500 were jointly launched by Governor of Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) Chiranjibi Nepal and Indian Ambassador to Nepal Manjeev Singh Puri at Hotel Aloft in Kathmandu today.

The Central Bank of Nepal on Friday released three coins to commemorate the birth anniversary of Sikh Guru Nanak Dev. The coins with denomination of NPR (Nepali Rupees) 100, 1000 and 2500 were jointly launched by Governor of Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) Chiranjibi Nepal and Indian Ambassador to Nepal Manjeev Singh Puri at Hotel Aloft in Kathmandu today. The coins possess monetary value and its sale will start from September 30, the NRB said. "Proud to be a Sikh today. Proud to be a follower of Guru Nanak Dev. Today, you can find Sikhs residing in every part of the world that too in large numbers," Puri told the crowd gathered to celebrate the occasion. Shortly after, Puri took to Twitter saying, "Honoring Nepal's Sikh Heritage Embassy of India releases special publication to mark 550th Birth Anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji." On the occasion, both dignitaries also launched a book showcasing the Sikh heritage in Nepal. It has been published by BP Koirala India-Nepal Foundation in co-ordination with Embassy of India in Nepal. Before unveiling the book, Indian head of Mission gave a comprehensive presentation bringing out key aspects of the Sikh heritage in Nepal. The event was graced by the presence of Jathedar of Akal Takht S. Harpreet Singh, President of Shiromani Gurudwara Prabhandhak Committee-Amritsar S. Gobind Singh Longowal. A few prominent Sikh leaders from Punjab, including Charanjeet Singh Atwal, and former Deputy Speaker of Lok Sabha also participated in the event.

Nepal Central Bank issues three coins to commemorate Guru Nanak Dev's birth anniversary

Nepal on Friday celebrated the fourth anniversary of the promulgation of its landmark Constitution after six decades of political struggle in the country.

This comes amidst the rife with Madheshis who constitute 70 per cent of the Terai population and consider that the supreme law of the land unfairly recognises them.

On the evening of the Constitution Day, also celebrated as the National Day of Nepal, leaders from a few opposition parties claimed that works are not done as per the spirit of the constitution.&nbsp;

"Though years have passed by after the formation of the new constitution, the feeling of affinity and acceptance from all walks of life remains divided at large, which is a very painful thing for us," Nepali Congress President Sher Bahadur Deuba said while addressing the parliament on Thursday.

The Madhesh-based parties, who are still protesting against the newly-formulated Constitution and demanding its amendment, have announced not to celebrate the day expressing their reservation over the provisions of the supreme law of the nation.&nbsp;

"Four years have already passed but all the citizens have not got the chance to celebrate the Constitution Day in equity with fervour and happiness. And we know that this never can happen," Rajendra Mahato, a senior leader of the Madhesh-based Rastriya Janata Party-Nepal said.&nbsp;

The party is still continuing with its demands for an amendment of the Constitution and had staged rounds of protests over time.

Constitution of Nepal, promulgated by an elected body in 2015, is yet to get an appraisal from Madhesh-based parties.

"The disgruntled parties have been taking the issue forward. One group of disgruntled parties has been pressing it hard whereas other is supporting the monarchy. Kamal Thapa`s Rastriya Janata Party came forward demanding for change in the preamble of the Constitution. In place of a Republic, they wanted Constitutional monarchy; a Hindu nation in place of a secular state. These factors further fuel the disparity in the country," Prakash Timalsina, senior journalist and analyst told ANI.

The Madhesh-based parties who have been protesting since the birth of new constitution have demanded changes in the supreme law of the land which they allege have barred them from taking over executive posts in the Himalayan nation.

Protests across the country over the pressing issue have resulted in the death of 100 people.&nbsp;

Nepal on Friday celebrated the fourth anniversary of the promulgation of its landmark Constitution after six decades of political struggle in the country. This comes amidst the rife with Madheshis who constitute 70 per cent of the Terai population and consider that the supreme law of the land unfairly recognises them.

Nepal on Friday celebrated the fourth anniversary of the promulgation of its landmark Constitution after six decades of political struggle in the country. This comes amidst the rife with Madheshis who constitute 70 per cent of the Terai population and consider that the supreme law of the land unfairly recognises them. On the evening of the Constitution Day, also celebrated as the National Day of Nepal, leaders from a few opposition parties claimed that works are not done as per the spirit of the constitution. "Though years have passed by after the formation of the new constitution, the feeling of affinity and acceptance from all walks of life remains divided at large, which is a very painful thing for us," Nepali Congress President Sher Bahadur Deuba said while addressing the parliament on Thursday. The Madhesh-based parties, who are still protesting against the newly-formulated Constitution and demanding its amendment, have announced not to celebrate the day expressing their reservation over the provisions of the supreme law of the nation. "Four years have already passed but all the citizens have not got the chance to celebrate the Constitution Day in equity with fervour and happiness. And we know that this never can happen," Rajendra Mahato, a senior leader of the Madhesh-based Rastriya Janata Party-Nepal said. The party is still continuing with its demands for an amendment of the Constitution and had staged rounds of protests over time. Constitution of Nepal, promulgated by an elected body in 2015, is yet to get an appraisal from Madhesh-based parties. "The disgruntled parties have been taking the issue forward. One group of disgruntled parties has been pressing it hard whereas other is supporting the monarchy. Kamal Thapa`s Rastriya Janata Party came forward demanding for change in the preamble of the Constitution. In place of a Republic, they wanted Constitutional monarchy; a Hindu nation in place of a secular state. These factors further fuel the disparity in the country," Prakash Timalsina, senior journalist and analyst told ANI. The Madhesh-based parties who have been protesting since the birth of new constitution have demanded changes in the supreme law of the land which they allege have barred them from taking over executive posts in the Himalayan nation. Protests across the country over the pressing issue have resulted in the death of 100 people.

Nepal Constitution celebrates 4th b'day amidst Madheshi trouble

A suspicious object has been found at the Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu on Friday.

The Nepal police told ANI that the Army and the police are on the spot.

However, it is yet to be confirmed whether the suspicious object is a bomb or something else, the police added.

Further details are awaited.

Pashupatinath Temple is considered one of the most sacred worship places for Hindus and is dedicated to Lord Shiva.&nbsp;

The temple is a very famous tourist attraction with hundreds of followers from different parts of the world visiting it every year.

It is the oldest Hindu temple in Kathmandu and is also considered to be among the richest shrines in Nepal.

A suspicious object has been found at the Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu on Friday. The Nepal police told ANI that the Army and the police are on the spot. However, it is yet to be confirmed whether the suspicious object is a bomb or something else, the police added.

A suspicious object has been found at the Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu on Friday. The Nepal police told ANI that the Army and the police are on the spot. However, it is yet to be confirmed whether the suspicious object is a bomb or something else, the police added. Further details are awaited. Pashupatinath Temple is considered one of the most sacred worship places for Hindus and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is a very famous tourist attraction with hundreds of followers from different parts of the world visiting it every year. It is the oldest Hindu temple in Kathmandu and is also considered to be among the richest shrines in Nepal.

Nepal: Suspicious object found at Kathmandu's Pashupatinath Temple

Nepalese Deputy Prime Minister Upendra Yadav has claimed that there is no such condition to declare "Health Emergency" in the country following the dengue outbreak.

After facing intense criticism and demand from the MPs of opposition parties, Yadav, who is also a Minister for Health and Population claimed that the government was capable of controlling the epidemic.

He, therefore, refrained from demands of declaring an emergency.

<iframe data-google-container-id="4" data-load-complete="true" frameborder="0" height="1" id="google_ads_iframe_/6516239/outofpage_1x1_desktop_0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" name="google_ads_iframe_/6516239/outofpage_1x1_desktop_0" scrolling="no" srcdoc="" title="3rd party ad content" width="1"></iframe>"In our country, this disease also emerged to be complex like that of other nations but is seen with very minimal effect and for having a very low mortality rate.

The situation of emergency would not be viable for Nepal and would like to acknowledge it to everyone present here," Yadav said in his address to the Parliament on Wednesday.

Referring to the latest outbreak of dengue in Bangladesh, Philippines and other Asian nations, Yadav claimed that it has been contained through the active involvement of all three tiers of government.

As per Health Minister, the total number of infected people in the Himalayan nation now stands at 5,095 with six mortalities recorded.

The disease has already gripped 56 districts of the nation.

The government has been able to dispense the dengue tests kits to only 11 affected districts with special sanitation campaign underway in Dharan, Ithari, Biratnagar and Pokhara districts only.

Several MPs from the opposition and the ruling party had questioned Health Minister on government being silent over declaring the disease as "Health Emergency", even though it was taking the form of epidemic worrying the public.

During a meeting, lawmaker Devendra Raj Kandel questioned the minister about not declaring the state of emergency when the disease had already spread to 56 districts.

Other lawmakers namely Sujata Pariyar, Khagaraj Adhikari, Ram Bahadur Bista, Dilendra Prasad Badu, Amanlal Modi, Pushpa Bhusal, Prem Suwal, Parbata DC Chaudhary, Dev Prasad Timilsina, Meena Subba, Jeevan Ram Shrestha, Birodh Khatiwada , Krishna Gopal Shrestha, Rajendra Kumar KC and Nabina Lama also drew the government's attention to dengue epidemic in the country.

Nepalese Deputy Prime Minister Upendra Yadav has claimed that there is no such condition to declare "Health Emergency" in the country following the dengue outbreak.

Nepalese Deputy Prime Minister Upendra Yadav has claimed that there is no such condition to declare "Health Emergency" in the country following the dengue outbreak. After facing intense criticism and demand from the MPs of opposition parties, Yadav, who is also a Minister for Health and Population claimed that the government was capable of controlling the epidemic. He, therefore, refrained from demands of declaring an emergency. "In our country, this disease also emerged to be complex like that of other nations but is seen with very minimal effect and for having a very low mortality rate. The situation of emergency would not be viable for Nepal and would like to acknowledge it to everyone present here," Yadav said in his address to the Parliament on Wednesday. Referring to the latest outbreak of dengue in Bangladesh, Philippines and other Asian nations, Yadav claimed that it has been contained through the active involvement of all three tiers of government. As per Health Minister, the total number of infected people in the Himalayan nation now stands at 5,095 with six mortalities recorded. The disease has already gripped 56 districts of the nation. The government has been able to dispense the dengue tests kits to only 11 affected districts with special sanitation campaign underway in Dharan, Ithari, Biratnagar and Pokhara districts only. Several MPs from the opposition and the ruling party had questioned Health Minister on government being silent over declaring the disease as "Health Emergency", even though it was taking the form of epidemic worrying the public. During a meeting, lawmaker Devendra Raj Kandel questioned the minister about not declaring the state of emergency when the disease had already spread to 56 districts. Other lawmakers namely Sujata Pariyar, Khagaraj Adhikari, Ram Bahadur Bista, Dilendra Prasad Badu, Amanlal Modi, Pushpa Bhusal, Prem Suwal, Parbata DC Chaudhary, Dev Prasad Timilsina, Meena Subba, Jeevan Ram Shrestha, Birodh Khatiwada , Krishna Gopal Shrestha, Rajendra Kumar KC and Nabina Lama also drew the government's attention to dengue epidemic in the country.

No such condition to declare 'Health Emergency' in Nepal after dengue outbreak

Nepal has officially raised the matter with Beijing of Chinese nationals&nbsp;involved in a massive ATM hacking scandal that duped Nepali banks of millions of rupees.

On August 31, five&nbsp;Chinese nationals in Nepal in a coordinated action carried out fraud by tampering with ATM switch that links Nepal Electronic Payment System(NEPS) to eleven&nbsp;Nepali banks and was&nbsp;able to withdraw a large amount of cash illegally.

The Nepal Electronic Payment Systems (NEPS) was hacked by the Chinese who had arrived in the country on August 30 and had planned to leave on September 30.

The Nepali foreign ministry officials briefed their Chinese counterpart about the involvement of Chinese in one of the biggest scams country and communicated to them that such kind of incidents could send out a very bad image for its northern neighbour.

Foreign ministry officials along with Nepali finance ministry briefed Chinese officials of the nature of crime and the mechanism used by conspirators for the theft. They warned any such future incident like this could majorly impact Chinese business interest in Nepal.

The Nepal Rastra Bank(NRB), the central bank of Nepal had conveyed a special meeting of all Nepali banks to discuss the issue on September 9&nbsp;and 10. The matter was to be raised with Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi during his visit to the country earlier this month but Nepal officials&nbsp;decided not to raise the issue at the end moment to avoid embarrassment. The Chinese foreign minister was on a visit to China from September 8 to 10.

Approximately Rs 34.5 million(Nepali)&nbsp;was withdrawn illegally including 10.5 million(INR)&nbsp;from India according to Bam Bahadur Mishra, chief of the Payment Systems Department at Nepal Rastra Bank as quoted by local media.

The incident has raised eyebrows internationally as well and the way criminals were able to find loopholes in the electronic financial systems of Nepal.

Though there have been previous cases of ATM hacking in Nepal, including in 2017 involving NIC Asia Bank. This is one of the largest electronic financial fraud that has come to light in the south Asian country in recent years.

Nepal has officially raised the matter with Beijing of Chinese nationals involved in a massive ATM hacking scandal that duped Nepali banks of millions of rupees.

Nepal has officially raised the matter with Beijing of Chinese nationals involved in a massive ATM hacking scandal that duped Nepali banks of millions of rupees. On August 31, five Chinese nationals in Nepal in a coordinated action carried out fraud by tampering with ATM switch that links Nepal Electronic Payment System(NEPS) to eleven Nepali banks and was able to withdraw a large amount of cash illegally. The Nepal Electronic Payment Systems (NEPS) was hacked by the Chinese who had arrived in the country on August 30 and had planned to leave on September 30. The Nepali foreign ministry officials briefed their Chinese counterpart about the involvement of Chinese in one of the biggest scams country and communicated to them that such kind of incidents could send out a very bad image for its northern neighbour. Foreign ministry officials along with Nepali finance ministry briefed Chinese officials of the nature of crime and the mechanism used by conspirators for the theft. They warned any such future incident like this could majorly impact Chinese business interest in Nepal. The Nepal Rastra Bank(NRB), the central bank of Nepal had conveyed a special meeting of all Nepali banks to discuss the issue on September 9 and 10. The matter was to be raised with Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi during his visit to the country earlier this month but Nepal officials decided not to raise the issue at the end moment to avoid embarrassment. The Chinese foreign minister was on a visit to China from September 8 to 10. Approximately Rs 34.5 million(Nepali) was withdrawn illegally including 10.5 million(INR) from India according to Bam Bahadur Mishra, chief of the Payment Systems Department at Nepal Rastra Bank as quoted by local media. The incident has raised eyebrows internationally as well and the way criminals were able to find loopholes in the electronic financial systems of Nepal. Though there have been previous cases of ATM hacking in Nepal, including in 2017 involving NIC Asia Bank. This is one of the largest electronic financial fraud that has come to light in the south Asian country in recent years.

Chinese nationals involved in ATM fraud in Nepal; Kathmandu raises issue with Beijing

Nepal's Department of Tourism (DoT) has asked trekking and expedition companies to halt activities as a precaution in view of incessant rainfall in the region in the last few days.

"We ask all agencies to take this seriously. The weather is not favourable for climbing and we want them to make sure all their clients are safe. We want the organisers to only undertake mountain activities if the weather permits," DoT stated in the release.

Autumn is a popular season for mountain expeditions and trekking in the Himalayan country.

A total of 395 climbers from various countries have already taken permits to climb 17 different mountains, including Mount Everest.

"From past three days there has been a sudden change in the weather and most parts of the nation has witnessed rainfall," Barun Paudel, a meteorologist at Nepal`s Metrological and Forecasting division told ANI.

On Tuesday nearly a dozen helicopters of various private aviation service providers made an emergency landing in various parts of the country because of the weather.&nbsp;

Nepal's Department of Tourism (DoT) has asked trekking and expedition companies to halt activities as a precaution in view of incessant rainfall in the region in the last few days.

Nepal's Department of Tourism (DoT) has asked trekking and expedition companies to halt activities as a precaution in view of incessant rainfall in the region in the last few days. "We ask all agencies to take this seriously. The weather is not favourable for climbing and we want them to make sure all their clients are safe. We want the organisers to only undertake mountain activities if the weather permits," DoT stated in the release. Autumn is a popular season for mountain expeditions and trekking in the Himalayan country. A total of 395 climbers from various countries have already taken permits to climb 17 different mountains, including Mount Everest. "From past three days there has been a sudden change in the weather and most parts of the nation has witnessed rainfall," Barun Paudel, a meteorologist at Nepal`s Metrological and Forecasting division told ANI. On Tuesday nearly a dozen helicopters of various private aviation service providers made an emergency landing in various parts of the country because of the weather.

Nepal urges climbers, trekkers to halt activities as rainfall continues

Nepal has sought India's help to strengthen its hydropower sector as the Himalayan nation wants to increase its power generation capacity, Union Power Minister RK Singh said on Tuesday.

A discussion in this regard was held between Singh and Nepalese Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli during the former's visit to the country.

Speaking to ANI, Singh said, "Nepal wants to increase its power generation capacity. A discussion in this regard was held where the Nepal side sought India's help in the hydropower sector. India agreed to work as partners with Nepal to set up hydropower projects."

The minister noted that India currently supplies an estimated 600 megawatt of power to Nepal which serves as 50 per cent of the country`s power consumption.

Nepal has sought India's help to strengthen its hydropower sector as the Himalayan nation wants to increase its power generation capacity, Union Power Minister RK Singh said on Tuesday.

Nepal has sought India's help to strengthen its hydropower sector as the Himalayan nation wants to increase its power generation capacity, Union Power Minister RK Singh said on Tuesday. A discussion in this regard was held between Singh and Nepalese Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli during the former's visit to the country. Speaking to ANI, Singh said, "Nepal wants to increase its power generation capacity. A discussion in this regard was held where the Nepal side sought India's help in the hydropower sector. India agreed to work as partners with Nepal to set up hydropower projects." The minister noted that India currently supplies an estimated 600 megawatt of power to Nepal which serves as 50 per cent of the country`s power consumption.

Nepal seeks India's help to strengthen its hydropower sector

At least 27 Indian pilgrims were injured when a bus overturned at the Prithivi Highway in Western Nepal on Monday morning, police said.

The bus, with a registered number plate of Uttar Pradesh, was heading to Muktinath village in the Mustang district when it overturned on the highway at Byas Municipality-12 of the Tanahun district.

Twelve of the injured&nbsp;were rushed to the Manipal Teaching Hospital for treatment.

Six are in modern condition, while the others have been discharged, Tanahun District Police said.

The cause of the accident is yet to be ascertained, but the police suspect it to be over speeding and loss of control

At least 27 Indian pilgrims were injured when a bus overturned at the Prithivi Highway in Western Nepal on Monday morning, police said. The bus, with a registered number plate of Uttar Pradesh, was heading to Muktinath village in the Mustang district when it overturned on the highway at Byas Municipality-12 of the Tanahun district.

At least 27 Indian pilgrims were injured when a bus overturned at the Prithivi Highway in Western Nepal on Monday morning, police said. The bus, with a registered number plate of Uttar Pradesh, was heading to Muktinath village in the Mustang district when it overturned on the highway at Byas Municipality-12 of the Tanahun district. Twelve of the injured were rushed to the Manipal Teaching Hospital for treatment. Six are in modern condition, while the others have been discharged, Tanahun District Police said. The cause of the accident is yet to be ascertained, but the police suspect it to be over speeding and loss of control

27 Indian pilgrims injured in road accident in western Nepal

Meraj and Johan embark on a bucket list ride to Mustang Valley in Nepal. Their destination is the city of Lo Manthang—one of the remotest parts of the world that lies sandwiched between the upper Himalayas and the Tibetan Plateau.

WION Traveller S3 Episode 7—Epic Ride to Mustang Valley

In Lo Manthang, Johan and Meraj explore the spectacular Sky Caves of Mustang—ancient dwellings carved into high cliffs that have intrigued anthropologists and explorers for decades. From there they ride down to Jomsom, the most 'modern' city in Mustang, and through the famous Apple orchards of Marpha.

WION Traveller S3 Episode 10—The Mysterious Sky Caves of Mustang

Parliamentary party (PP) of Nepali Congress (NC) on Tuesday issued a press release asking the KP Sharma Oli government to amend multiple bills that allegedly violate the preamble and provisions of the Nepali constitution.

The leading opposition party of Nepal accused the ruling party of not accommodating the difference of opinion expressed by their fellow legislators in the parliamentary committee on Citizenship Bill, Federal Civil Service Bill and Information Technology Bill, The Himalayan Time (THT) reported.

"No bill that violates the preamble and provisions of the constitution will be acceptable to the Nepali Congress. The NC, therefore, urges the government to amend the bills that violate the spirit and the provisions of the constitution," NC stated in its release.

Bal Krishna Khand of the NC told THT that they are against the Nepali Communist Party's (NCP) intend to unanimously proceed with the amendment of the controversial bills to retain the provisions that allowed foreign women married to Nepali men to obtain Nepali citizenship immediately after marriage.

"Some ruling NCP lawmakers are arguing that the provisions related to marital naturalisation should be changed and foreign women married to Nepali men should be made to wait for some years before they get their naturalised citizenship. This is irrational and we will not accept their arguments," Khand said.

"If a waiting period is introduced for obtaining marital naturalisation, then foreign women married to Nepali men might not get a share of their husband's property before they obtain their citizenship nor will they enjoy reproductive health rights," he added.

Khand also alleged that the Information Technology Bill had restrictive provisions that could curtail press freedom and citizen's&nbsp;freedom of expression.

"Information Technology Bill intends not only to restrict online media but also discourages people from criticising public post holders. We cannot support such provisions," he said.

NC wants those provisions to be excluded from the bill, he added. Additionally, the NC leader said that his party would also stall House proceedings if the ruling party did not amend the provisions of the NHRC Act (Amendment) Bill and National Security Council Bill in the Parliament Secretariat.

"We are also opposed to the bill that proposes to give the prime minister-led steering committee the power to handle mega projects worth over Rs 25 billion", the NC leader said.

Meanwhile, the NCP Chief Whip Dev Prasad Gurung said his party had put bills opposed by the NC on hold.

"We have passed almost all the bills on the basis of consensus with the opposition parties and want to do the same with other bills. NC should not think of adopting the extreme measure of stalling House proceedings," he added.

Parliamentary party (PP) of Nepali Congress (NC) on Tuesday issued a press release asking the KP Sharma Oli government to amend multiple bills that allegedly violate the preamble and provisions of the Nepali constitution.

Parliamentary party (PP) of Nepali Congress (NC) on Tuesday issued a press release asking the KP Sharma Oli government to amend multiple bills that allegedly violate the preamble and provisions of the Nepali constitution. The leading opposition party of Nepal accused the ruling party of not accommodating the difference of opinion expressed by their fellow legislators in the parliamentary committee on Citizenship Bill, Federal Civil Service Bill and Information Technology Bill, The Himalayan Time (THT) reported. "No bill that violates the preamble and provisions of the constitution will be acceptable to the Nepali Congress. The NC, therefore, urges the government to amend the bills that violate the spirit and the provisions of the constitution," NC stated in its release. Bal Krishna Khand of the NC told THT that they are against the Nepali Communist Party's (NCP) intend to unanimously proceed with the amendment of the controversial bills to retain the provisions that allowed foreign women married to Nepali men to obtain Nepali citizenship immediately after marriage. "Some ruling NCP lawmakers are arguing that the provisions related to marital naturalisation should be changed and foreign women married to Nepali men should be made to wait for some years before they get their naturalised citizenship. This is irrational and we will not accept their arguments," Khand said. "If a waiting period is introduced for obtaining marital naturalisation, then foreign women married to Nepali men might not get a share of their husband's property before they obtain their citizenship nor will they enjoy reproductive health rights," he added. Khand also alleged that the Information Technology Bill had restrictive provisions that could curtail press freedom and citizen's freedom of expression. "Information Technology Bill intends not only to restrict online media but also discourages people from criticising public post holders. We cannot support such provisions," he said. NC wants those provisions to be excluded from the bill, he added. Additionally, the NC leader said that his party would also stall House proceedings if the ruling party did not amend the provisions of the NHRC Act (Amendment) Bill and National Security Council Bill in the Parliament Secretariat. "We are also opposed to the bill that proposes to give the prime minister-led steering committee the power to handle mega projects worth over Rs 25 billion", the NC leader said. Meanwhile, the NCP Chief Whip Dev Prasad Gurung said his party had put bills opposed by the NC on hold. "We have passed almost all the bills on the basis of consensus with the opposition parties and want to do the same with other bills. NC should not think of adopting the extreme measure of stalling House proceedings," he added.

Nepal: NC voices concerns over different bills, threatens to stall parliament

Nepal and China on Monday exchanged three agreements following bilateral talks between the Nepalese Minister of Foreign Affairs Pradeep Kumar Gyawali and his visiting Chinese counterpart Wang Yi.

The two countries have seen closer ties after KP Sharma Oli came into power as Nepal's Prime Minister for the second time.

As per the first agreement, China would build a well-equipped hospital in the Manang District of Nepal which is estimated to cost around 350 million Nepalese rupees.

The second agreement will see Beijing providing 5,000 sets of tarpaulins to Nepal, which would be used during the time of emergencies.

The third agreement is aimed at sending volunteer teachers to Nepal from China shortly.

With the signing of the agreement, Nepalese schools would start teaching the Mandarin language.

A few schools close to the Chinese Mission in Nepal had already started teaching the language earlier.

During his three-day visit, the Chinese Foreign Minister also announced 16 Million Nepalese rupees for flood victims in the landlocked nation.

The senior Nepalese officials and ministers present during the bilateral talks included Minister for Foreign Affairs Pradeep Kumar Gyawali, Finance Minister Yuba Raj Khatiwada, Nepal's Ambassador to China Leela Mani Poudyal, Foreign Secretary Shankar Das Bairagi, Finance Secretary Rajan Khanal and the Joint Secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Kali Prasad Pokharel, to name a few.

The Chinese side was led by Foreign Minister Wang Yi and included Chinese Foreign Secretary Lu Zhoubi, China's ambassador to Nepal Hou Yanqi, Vice-Chair of ChineseInternational Development Cooperation Agency, officials of the Asia Department at China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other senior officials.

Wang arrived in Nepal on September 8 and is scheduled to return on September 10.

Nepal and China on Monday exchanged three agreements following bilateral talks between the Nepalese Minister of Foreign Affairs Pradeep Kumar Gyawali and his visiting Chinese counterpart Wang Yi.

Nepal and China on Monday exchanged three agreements following bilateral talks between the Nepalese Minister of Foreign Affairs Pradeep Kumar Gyawali and his visiting Chinese counterpart Wang Yi. The two countries have seen closer ties after KP Sharma Oli came into power as Nepal's Prime Minister for the second time. As per the first agreement, China would build a well-equipped hospital in the Manang District of Nepal which is estimated to cost around 350 million Nepalese rupees. The second agreement will see Beijing providing 5,000 sets of tarpaulins to Nepal, which would be used during the time of emergencies. The third agreement is aimed at sending volunteer teachers to Nepal from China shortly. With the signing of the agreement, Nepalese schools would start teaching the Mandarin language. A few schools close to the Chinese Mission in Nepal had already started teaching the language earlier. During his three-day visit, the Chinese Foreign Minister also announced 16 Million Nepalese rupees for flood victims in the landlocked nation. The senior Nepalese officials and ministers present during the bilateral talks included Minister for Foreign Affairs Pradeep Kumar Gyawali, Finance Minister Yuba Raj Khatiwada, Nepal's Ambassador to China Leela Mani Poudyal, Foreign Secretary Shankar Das Bairagi, Finance Secretary Rajan Khanal and the Joint Secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Kali Prasad Pokharel, to name a few. The Chinese side was led by Foreign Minister Wang Yi and included Chinese Foreign Secretary Lu Zhoubi, China's ambassador to Nepal Hou Yanqi, Vice-Chair of ChineseInternational Development Cooperation Agency, officials of the Asia Department at China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other senior officials. Wang arrived in Nepal on September 8 and is scheduled to return on September 10.

Nepal, China ink 3 agreements during Chinese FM's visit

More than 20 years after it was first proposed, the first cross border commercial oil pipeline will start functioning between India and Nepal.&nbsp;

The pipeline from Motihari in Bihar to Amlekhganj in Nepal will transfer petroleum products such as diesel, LPG, aviation turbine fuel etc.

A release from the Indian Prime Minister's office said,"This India-Nepal energy cooperation project, the Motihari-Amlekhganj pipeline, is a symbol of our close bilateral relations."

Adding, "It will help to enhance the energy security of the region and substantially cut down on transit costs."

India's prime minister Narendra Modi and Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli will jointly inaugurate it at 12 noon on Tuesday via a video link.

The idea of the pipeline was first proposed in 1996 and finalised in 2014 during PM Modi's Nepal visit. It was approved by Indian Oil at a total cost of Rs 324 crore in September 2015 but the work was delayed following the earthquake of 2015. The groundbreaking ceremony took place in April last year during PM Oli's India visit.

The pipeline will replace road transportation and ensure uninterrupted supplies. The pipeline is 68 km long with has a capacity of 2 million tonnes per annum. 32.7km of the pipeline is in Indian territory and 36.2 km in Nepal's territory.

There will be pumping facilities at Motihari and Amlekhganj terminal is revamped and has storage, receiving facilities and fire fighting facilities.

New Delhi is also working on 130 kilometres long India Bangladesh friendship pipeline whose construction was jointly inaugurated by PM Modi and Bangladeshi PM Sheikh Hasina in September 2018. It will connect Siliguri in West Bengal with Parbatipur in Bangladesh with a total cost of Rs 346 crore.

More than 20 years after it was first proposed, the first cross border commercial oil pipeline will start functioning between India and Nepal. The pipeline from Motihari in Bihar to Amlekhganj in Nepal will transfer petroleum products such as diesel, LPG, aviation turbine fuel etc.

More than 20 years after it was first proposed, the first cross border commercial oil pipeline will start functioning between India and Nepal. The pipeline from Motihari in Bihar to Amlekhganj in Nepal will transfer petroleum products such as diesel, LPG, aviation turbine fuel etc. A release from the Indian Prime Minister's office said,"This India-Nepal energy cooperation project, the Motihari-Amlekhganj pipeline, is a symbol of our close bilateral relations." Adding, "It will help to enhance the energy security of the region and substantially cut down on transit costs." India's prime minister Narendra Modi and Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli will jointly inaugurate it at 12 noon on Tuesday via a video link. The idea of the pipeline was first proposed in 1996 and finalised in 2014 during PM Modi's Nepal visit. It was approved by Indian Oil at a total cost of Rs 324 crore in September 2015 but the work was delayed following the earthquake of 2015. The groundbreaking ceremony took place in April last year during PM Oli's India visit. The pipeline will replace road transportation and ensure uninterrupted supplies. The pipeline is 68 km long with has a capacity of 2 million tonnes per annum. 32.7km of the pipeline is in Indian territory and 36.2 km in Nepal's territory. There will be pumping facilities at Motihari and Amlekhganj terminal is revamped and has storage, receiving facilities and fire fighting facilities. New Delhi is also working on 130 kilometres long India Bangladesh friendship pipeline whose construction was jointly inaugurated by PM Modi and Bangladeshi PM Sheikh Hasina in September 2018. It will connect Siliguri in West Bengal with Parbatipur in Bangladesh with a total cost of Rs 346 crore.

PM Modi and his Nepalese counterpart to jointly inaugurate South Asia's first  cross-border pipeline

Nepal has begun large-scale awareness campaigns to deal with the dengue outbreak in Chitwan District after nearly 1,000 people were infected last month.

Campaigns are underway to destroy mosquitoes in cooperation with local-level authorities and reform committees.

Similarly, social organisations have also initiated awareness campaigns and rallies to combat the infection, The Himalayan Time reported.

"As many as 2,892 people had visited various hospitals in the district for treatment. Of them, 1,036 were found infected with dengue,"&nbsp;said Vector Control Inspector Ram KC of District Health Office Chitwan.

"Dengue was detected in people living in urban areas and dense settlement and as many as 800 people were found infected with dengue in Bharatpur Metropolitan City alone," District Health Office added.

Bharatpur Hospital senior physician Dr Bhojraj Adhikari said mosquitoes responsible for dengue outbreak were more common in city areas as compared to rural areas.

There has been an extraordinary rise in the number of dengue cases across the landlocked country. Doctors have suggested keeping the environment clean as a preventive measure.

Nepal has begun large-scale awareness campaigns to deal with the dengue outbreak in Chitwan District after nearly 1,000 people were infected last month. Campaigns are underway to destroy mosquitoes in cooperation with local-level authorities and reform committees.

Nepal has begun large-scale awareness campaigns to deal with the dengue outbreak in Chitwan District after nearly 1,000 people were infected last month. Campaigns are underway to destroy mosquitoes in cooperation with local-level authorities and reform committees. Similarly, social organisations have also initiated awareness campaigns and rallies to combat the infection, The Himalayan Time reported. "As many as 2,892 people had visited various hospitals in the district for treatment. Of them, 1,036 were found infected with dengue," said Vector Control Inspector Ram KC of District Health Office Chitwan. "Dengue was detected in people living in urban areas and dense settlement and as many as 800 people were found infected with dengue in Bharatpur Metropolitan City alone," District Health Office added. Bharatpur Hospital senior physician Dr Bhojraj Adhikari said mosquitoes responsible for dengue outbreak were more common in city areas as compared to rural areas. There has been an extraordinary rise in the number of dengue cases across the landlocked country. Doctors have suggested keeping the environment clean as a preventive measure.

Nepal begins large-scale awareness campaigns to tackle dengue outbreak

A UN committee has ordered Nepal to compensate a man blocked from seeking justice after suffering years of forced labour, as well as alleged torture in custody as a child.

In a decision published Tuesday, the UN Human Rights Committee also called on Nepal to remove all existing obstacles hindering victims of forced labour and torture from filing complaints.

The ruling came in response to an individual case brought by a Nepali man, using the pseudonym Bholi Pharaka, who from the age of nine had worked as a domestic worker in Kathmandu to help provide for his impoverished, indigenous family.

When he was around 12, he moved to a new family, headed by an officer in the Nepali army, where he says he was forced to work from 4:00 am until 10:00 pm each day.

He maintains he was subjected to physical and psychological abuse and never received compensation for his labour.

After two years, he escaped back to his home village in 2012, but was soon arrested, after his employer filed a police complaint accusing him of theft.&nbsp;

While in custody, Pharaka, who was 14 at the time, says he suffered beatings and other torture to force him to confess.

With his family unable to pay bail or legal fees, he was held in a severely overcrowded adult jail for months, where he says the torture continued, before being transferred to a juvenile facility.

The UN committee faulted Nepal's judiciary for failing to investigate the boy's claims in court that he had been tortured, and for failing to protect him as a minor and a member of a recognised vulnerable minority.

It also decried that authorities had ignored multiple complaints filed by the boy's family regarding his treatment in custody and the forced labour he was subjected to.

The committee called on Nepal to provide Pharaka with an "effective remedy", including "adequate compensation, proportional to the violations suffered."

It also urged the country to remove "legal, practical and administrative obstacles" blocking victims of torture and child and forced labour from accessing justice.

"It is our hope that Nepal will take all necessary measures to protect and help victims of such acts regain their lives," committee member Helene Trigroudja said in a statement.&nbsp;

The committee has given Nepal six months to report back on measures it is taking to rectify the situation.

The team of 18 independent experts monitors whether countries adhere to their human rights commitments, but does not have enforcement powers.

A UN committee has ordered Nepal to compensate a man blocked from seeking justice after suffering years of forced labour, as well as alleged torture in custody as a child.

A UN committee has ordered Nepal to compensate a man blocked from seeking justice after suffering years of forced labour, as well as alleged torture in custody as a child. In a decision published Tuesday, the UN Human Rights Committee also called on Nepal to remove all existing obstacles hindering victims of forced labour and torture from filing complaints. The ruling came in response to an individual case brought by a Nepali man, using the pseudonym Bholi Pharaka, who from the age of nine had worked as a domestic worker in Kathmandu to help provide for his impoverished, indigenous family. When he was around 12, he moved to a new family, headed by an officer in the Nepali army, where he says he was forced to work from 4:00 am until 10:00 pm each day. He maintains he was subjected to physical and psychological abuse and never received compensation for his labour. After two years, he escaped back to his home village in 2012, but was soon arrested, after his employer filed a police complaint accusing him of theft. While in custody, Pharaka, who was 14 at the time, says he suffered beatings and other torture to force him to confess. With his family unable to pay bail or legal fees, he was held in a severely overcrowded adult jail for months, where he says the torture continued, before being transferred to a juvenile facility. The UN committee faulted Nepal's judiciary for failing to investigate the boy's claims in court that he had been tortured, and for failing to protect him as a minor and a member of a recognised vulnerable minority. It also decried that authorities had ignored multiple complaints filed by the boy's family regarding his treatment in custody and the forced labour he was subjected to. The committee called on Nepal to provide Pharaka with an "effective remedy", including "adequate compensation, proportional to the violations suffered." It also urged the country to remove "legal, practical and administrative obstacles" blocking victims of torture and child and forced labour from accessing justice. "It is our hope that Nepal will take all necessary measures to protect and help victims of such acts regain their lives," committee member Helene Trigroudja said in a statement. The committee has given Nepal six months to report back on measures it is taking to rectify the situation. The team of 18 independent experts monitors whether countries adhere to their human rights commitments, but does not have enforcement powers.

UN committee faults Nepal in child labour, abuse case

Nepal is planning to hold an informal meeting of foreign ministers from SAARC on the sidelines of the 74th UN General Assembly (UNGA) session in September this year, the country's foreign minister Pradeep Gyawali said on Monday.

He made the comments while responding to queries about Nepal's role in creating an environment for the commencement of the regional summit.

"A SAARC Foreign Ministers informal meeting has been planned on the sidelines of the 74th United Nations General Assembly session where we will be discussing its revival. We want SAARC to be active again," Gyawali, who is the group's co-chair, told reporters here.

The 18th SAARC summit was held in Kathmandu in 2014 and Pakistan was to host the next summit in 2016.

However, the summit was cancelled after India boycotted the meeting, in the wake of the terror attack at a military base in Uri in Jammu and Kashmir, which killed 19 soldiers.

Other countries, including Bangladesh, Bhutan and Afghanistan, also walked out following India's decision to exit the summit to step up diplomatic pressure on Pakistan.

India, the largest member of SAARC forum, has said it will participate in future summits if Pakistan took steps to tackle terrorism.

Nepal is planning to hold an informal meeting of foreign ministers from SAARC on the sidelines of the 74th UN General Assembly (UNGA) session in September this year, the country's foreign minister Pradeep Gyawali said on Monday.

Nepal is planning to hold an informal meeting of foreign ministers from SAARC on the sidelines of the 74th UN General Assembly (UNGA) session in September this year, the country's foreign minister Pradeep Gyawali said on Monday. He made the comments while responding to queries about Nepal's role in creating an environment for the commencement of the regional summit. "A SAARC Foreign Ministers informal meeting has been planned on the sidelines of the 74th United Nations General Assembly session where we will be discussing its revival. We want SAARC to be active again," Gyawali, who is the group's co-chair, told reporters here. The 18th SAARC summit was held in Kathmandu in 2014 and Pakistan was to host the next summit in 2016. However, the summit was cancelled after India boycotted the meeting, in the wake of the terror attack at a military base in Uri in Jammu and Kashmir, which killed 19 soldiers. Other countries, including Bangladesh, Bhutan and Afghanistan, also walked out following India's decision to exit the summit to step up diplomatic pressure on Pakistan. India, the largest member of SAARC forum, has said it will participate in future summits if Pakistan took steps to tackle terrorism.

Nepal plans SAARC Foreign Ministers' informal meet on UN General Assembly sidelines

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will pay a two-day visit to Nepal from August 21 to participate in the fifth meeting of the Nepal-India Joint Commission.

The meeting will be co-chaired by Nepal's Minister for Foreign Affairs Pradeep Kumar Gyawali.

The two leaders will review the entire gamut of bilateral partnership, including in the fields of connectivity, trade, economy, culture, power, and education.

"The Joint Commission meeting will review the overall state of bilateral relations, and various areas of cooperation such as connectivity and economic partnership, trade and transit, power and water resources sectors, culture, education and other matters of mutual interest," a release by Nepalese Foreign Ministry said on Sunday.

The Joint Commission, which was established in June 1987, provides an opportunity for the two neighbouring countries to review bilateral cooperation in all areas and extend necessary political guidance for further enhancing the traditionally close ties.

The last meeting of the commission was held in New Delhi in October 2016 during which the two sides had reviewed the progress in projects covered under the Lines of Credit, and had agreed to expedite their implementation.

Jaishankar will call on Nepal's President Bidhya Devi Bhandari and Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli during his stay.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will pay a two-day visit to Nepal from August 21 to participate in the fifth meeting of the Nepal-India Joint Commission. The meeting will be co-chaired by Nepal's Minister for Foreign Affairs Pradeep Kumar Gyawali.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will pay a two-day visit to Nepal from August 21 to participate in the fifth meeting of the Nepal-India Joint Commission. The meeting will be co-chaired by Nepal's Minister for Foreign Affairs Pradeep Kumar Gyawali. The two leaders will review the entire gamut of bilateral partnership, including in the fields of connectivity, trade, economy, culture, power, and education. "The Joint Commission meeting will review the overall state of bilateral relations, and various areas of cooperation such as connectivity and economic partnership, trade and transit, power and water resources sectors, culture, education and other matters of mutual interest," a release by Nepalese Foreign Ministry said on Sunday. The Joint Commission, which was established in June 1987, provides an opportunity for the two neighbouring countries to review bilateral cooperation in all areas and extend necessary political guidance for further enhancing the traditionally close ties. The last meeting of the commission was held in New Delhi in October 2016 during which the two sides had reviewed the progress in projects covered under the Lines of Credit, and had agreed to expedite their implementation. Jaishankar will call on Nepal's President Bidhya Devi Bhandari and Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli during his stay.

S Jaishankar to pay two-day visit to Nepal from August 21

Climbers wanting to take on Mount Everest will first have to tackle another Nepal mountain of at least 6,500 metres&nbsp;under new proposals by a committee seeking to improve safety on the world's highest peak.

The requirement is being proposed after a deadly traffic-clogged season saw 11 climbers die on Everest, which some experts blamed on inexperience.

"These recommendations have been made to ensure the quality and safety of Nepal's mountaineering tourism," Ghanshyam Upadhayay, tourism ministry official and head of the committee told AFP.&nbsp;

The committee also proposed a fee of at least $35,000 for Everest and $20,000 for other mountains over 8,000 metres, amid criticism that cost-cutting by expedition organisers was jeopardising climbers' safety.&nbsp;

The 59-page report recommended minimum standards for climbers, expedition organisers as well as guides and government liaison officers involved in Nepal's lucrative mountaineering industry.&nbsp;

"We will take this forward by amending the laws and regulations... we will make our mountains safe, managed and dignified," Tourism Minister Yogesh Bhattari told reporters.&nbsp;

For years, Kathmandu has issued Everest permits to anyone willing to pay $11,000, regardless of whether they were rookie climbers or skilled mountaineers.

This year record 885 people climbed Everest, 644 of them from the south and 241 from the northern flank in Tibet.&nbsp;

Nine of the 11 deaths were on the Nepal side, and at least four of the deaths this season were blamed on overcrowding.

A traffic jam forced teams to wait for hours in freezing temperatures to reach Everest's 8,848-metre (29,029 feet) summit and then descend, increasing the risk of frostbite, altitude sickness and exhaustion from depleted oxygen levels.

But experts say the bigger killer was inexperience among a new wave of ill-prepared mountaineer tourists.

"This is a good opportunity to improve the sector. If we want things to change the suggestions have to be implemented," said Santa Bir Lama, president of Nepal Mountaineering Association, who was also part of the committee.

Nepal is home to eight of the world's 14 highest peaks, and foreign climbers that flock to its mountains are a major source of revenue for the country.

Climbers wanting to take on Mount Everest will first have to tackle another Nepal mountain of at least 6,500 metres under new proposals by a committee seeking to improve safety on the world's highest peak.

Climbers wanting to take on Mount Everest will first have to tackle another Nepal mountain of at least 6,500 metres under new proposals by a committee seeking to improve safety on the world's highest peak. The requirement is being proposed after a deadly traffic-clogged season saw 11 climbers die on Everest, which some experts blamed on inexperience. "These recommendations have been made to ensure the quality and safety of Nepal's mountaineering tourism," Ghanshyam Upadhayay, tourism ministry official and head of the committee told AFP. The committee also proposed a fee of at least $35,000 for Everest and $20,000 for other mountains over 8,000 metres, amid criticism that cost-cutting by expedition organisers was jeopardising climbers' safety. The 59-page report recommended minimum standards for climbers, expedition organisers as well as guides and government liaison officers involved in Nepal's lucrative mountaineering industry. "We will take this forward by amending the laws and regulations... we will make our mountains safe, managed and dignified," Tourism Minister Yogesh Bhattari told reporters. For years, Kathmandu has issued Everest permits to anyone willing to pay $11,000, regardless of whether they were rookie climbers or skilled mountaineers. This year record 885 people climbed Everest, 644 of them from the south and 241 from the northern flank in Tibet. Nine of the 11 deaths were on the Nepal side, and at least four of the deaths this season were blamed on overcrowding. A traffic jam forced teams to wait for hours in freezing temperatures to reach Everest's 8,848-metre (29,029 feet) summit and then descend, increasing the risk of frostbite, altitude sickness and exhaustion from depleted oxygen levels. But experts say the bigger killer was inexperience among a new wave of ill-prepared mountaineer tourists. "This is a good opportunity to improve the sector. If we want things to change the suggestions have to be implemented," said Santa Bir Lama, president of Nepal Mountaineering Association, who was also part of the committee. Nepal is home to eight of the world's 14 highest peaks, and foreign climbers that flock to its mountains are a major source of revenue for the country.

Nepal mulls minimum Everest criteria after deadly season

Antiques and manuscripts are being stolen and sold for millions of dollars. Religious deities are being auctioned off, the highest bidder displays it in his home as if it always belonged to him, but what happens to the original owners?

The stolen gods of Nepal

After consultations with political parties, Nepal's Election Commission has decided to hold by elections in the Himalayan nation on November 30.

At least 50 seats have remained vacant since the previous polls were held in 2017, according to Shankar Prasad Kharel, the Election Commission spokesperson.

"On the stipulated date, the elections would be held in 37 districts of the nation.&nbsp;

It would choose one Sub Metropolitan Chief, three Chief of Village Council, one Deputy Chief of Village Council, 41 Village Council and Metropolitan Ward Chiefs, three State Assembly members and one member of the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-house-of-representatives-speaker-nancy-pelosi-praises-pm-modis-oratory-skills-says-he-had-audience-in-the-palm-of-his-hands-235157"> House of Representatives</a>.

With this, the Commission would expedite the preparations for elections," Kharel said.

Around two years ago, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepalese-nationals-require-visa-to-enter-india-via-pakistan-china-229579">Nepal</a> witnessed local level elections after a gap of nearly two decades and federal assembly elections which gave an overwhelming two-third majority to the Left Alliance.

After consultations with political parties, Nepal's Election Commission has decided to hold by elections in the Himalayan nation on November 30. At least 50 seats have remained vacant since the previous polls were held in 2017, according to Shankar Prasad Kharel, the Election Commission spokesperson.

After consultations with political parties, Nepal's Election Commission has decided to hold by elections in the Himalayan nation on November 30. At least 50 seats have remained vacant since the previous polls were held in 2017, according to Shankar Prasad Kharel, the Election Commission spokesperson. "On the stipulated date, the elections would be held in 37 districts of the nation. It would choose one Sub Metropolitan Chief, three Chief of Village Council, one Deputy Chief of Village Council, 41 Village Council and Metropolitan Ward Chiefs, three State Assembly members and one member of the House of Representatives. With this, the Commission would expedite the preparations for elections," Kharel said. Around two years ago, Nepal witnessed local level elections after a gap of nearly two decades and federal assembly elections which gave an overwhelming two-third majority to the Left Alliance.

Nepal to hold by elections in November end

A bomb exploded in a ward office in Nuwakot district on Wednesday, officials said.

Also, two vehicles came under attack in Makwanpur and suspicious objects were found at four places in Hetauda.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/death-toll-soars-to-111-due-to-floods-landslides-in-nepal-238576">Nepal Army</a>`s bomb disposal team are heading towards the locations to take stock of the situation.

&nbsp;

A bomb exploded in a ward office in Nuwakot district on Wednesday, officials said. Also, two vehicles came under attack in Makwanpur and suspicious objects were found at four places in Hetauda.

A bomb exploded in a ward office in Nuwakot district on Wednesday, officials said. Also, two vehicles came under attack in Makwanpur and suspicious objects were found at four places in Hetauda. The Nepal Army`s bomb disposal team are heading towards the locations to take stock of the situation.

Nepal: Explosion in ward office, 2 vehicles come under attack

nepal-0

Nepal, News on Nepal, stories on Nepal, articles on Nepal, Nepal stories at Wion, Nepal news, Nepal latest news

nepal 0