Kathmandu: Minister for Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation, Pampha Bhusal has said that recent developments are increasing the risks of climate change.

Speaking at the information sharing workshop on ‘Flood Early Warning System in Hydropower Projects' organized on Monday, she said that proper management of risks posed by climate change was becoming a challenge for Nepal.

She said, "The direct impact of climate change is highest in our rivers and settlements. Disasters such as floods and landslides have caused a great loss of life and property. The hydropower projects have also been affected a lot. ”

Minister Bhusal said that the countries responsible for climate change should provide compensation to the affected countries as the impact of climate change is on the rise. "Countries causing climate change must pay fair compensation to the affected nations," she said.

Stating that it is necessary to construct hydropower projects in a quality and reliable manner and keep them safe from the risks due to various disasters, Minister Bhusal said that safe steps should be taken for the sustainable development of the projects.

She warned that if the hydropower projects are not safe, it could affect the economy of the country.

Recalling that the impact of climate change has caused a huge loss of life and property due to rains and floods twice this year, Minister Bhusal lauded the role played by Ilam Municipality and Mai Jogmai Rural Municipality in reducing the risks by establishing emergency operations centers.

She said, "I am confident that the early information system will help in reducing the loss of life and property due to natural calamities." In addition, if other hydropower projects follow the pre-information system, the project will benefit everyone, including the local community. ”

Minister Bhusal shared that continuous efforts are being made for the sustainable development of hydropower by preparing necessary policies, rules and environment to increase the consumption of electricity generated within the country and export it to the neighboring countries.