Nepal Flash Floods Toll May Reach 10,000 as Finance Minister Swarnim Wagle Announces Ambitious Clean

Nepal's Finance Minister Swarnim Wagle has warned that the final death toll from the August flash floods could reach up to 10,000. A figure eerily close to that of the devastating 2015 earthquake. As the country struggles to recover from the devastating disaster, Wagle commended India's prompt relief and rescue assistance following the flash floods.

Wagle, who is on a three-day trip to India for high-level diplomatic meetings. This includes with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Nirmala Sitharaman. Announced that Nepal Prime Minister Balendra Shah is expected to visit India by the end of the year.

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The Nepalese finance minister's visit coincides with India's efforts to support its neighbor during this time of need.

As part of these efforts, India will export 654 MW of electricity daily for 18 hours a day from September 13 to December 31. This move aims to offset the generation shortfall caused by the disaster. This has already resulted in close to 800 MW (or 20% of the total capacity) being wiped out due to the floods.

India's support comes as Nepal struggles to recover from the devastating impact of the flash floods. The disaster management authority reports that as of Saturday. 1,411 deaths and 5,875 people are missing, with pilgrims, tourists, traders, and small businessmen among those affected.

Nepal aims to generate 35,000 MW of pure clean energy over the next nine years, with a focus on hydropower projects. The country's finance minister acknowledged that the floods have dealt a significant blow to its clean energy ambitions. However, remains committed to achieving this goal.

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Some Korean and Chinese investments in Nepal have also been hit by the floods, with Wagle stating that "the large Indian-invested projects are in the far east and far west of Nepal, and not in this region." The impact on international investors highlights the need for Nepal to diversify its economy and reduce its reliance on a single sector.

As Nepal looks to the future, it is clear that the country will require significant support from its neighbors and international partners to recover from this devastating disaster. With India's prompt relief and rescue assistance. And its commitment to clean energy ambitions, there is hope for Nepal's recovery in the years ahead.