KATHMANDU, May 9: In a bid to raise public awareness about climate change and support communities affected by its impacts in the Himalayan region, the Rotary Club of Kathmandu Mid-Town is set to organize a special charity dinner event in the capital on May 25.
The main theme of the dinner, which will be held at Hotel Soaltee, is "Response to Climate Change in the Himalayan Region." Club President Rupi Singh highlighted the escalating impact of climate change in Himalayan countries like Nepal, emphasizing the shared responsibility to raise public awareness of this critical issue.
“Collaboration from all levels of society is essential to combat climate change,” she stated during a press conference held today to share details about the upcoming event.
The dinner is expected to host 250 attendees and will feature informative presentations on climate change, video displays, keynote addresses by prominent speakers, musical entertainment, and dinner.
Club Secretary Kalpana Parajuli announced the establishment of the "Natural Disaster Response Fund" under the club's initiative. She explained that the fund will be used to provide immediate relief, enhance preparedness, and offer support to communities in the Himalayan region that are vulnerable to and affected by climate change.
During the press briefing, Dr. Krishna Belbase pointed out the accelerated rate of glacial melt in the Himalayan region in recent years, which is severely affecting water resources, agriculture, the environment, and livelihoods in downstream areas. Despite Nepal’s negligible contribution to global carbon emissions, he noted that the country is highly susceptible to the adverse effects of climate change. “The melting Himalayan glaciers have increased the risks of floods, glacial lake outburst floods, and landslides. Agriculture is also beginning to experience negative consequences,” he added.
Dr. Belbase stressed that alongside governmental policy initiatives, public awareness, preparedness, and citizen-level cooperation are equally vital.
Individuals interested in participating in the charity dinner can contact the Rotary Club of Kathmandu Mid-Town through its website or official email. The club stated that this initiative aims to contribute to long-term environmental conservation, promote climate education, and empower affected communities.