KATHMANDU, Sept 6: Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation Khadak Raj Paudel has said that preliminary estimates indicate the tourism sector has suffered losses exceeding Rs 50 billion due to the catastrophic Bhotekoshi flash flood.
Minister Paudel reported that the disaster damaged 142 hotels, 57 restaurants, and 141 vehicles linked to tourism businesses, while important religious and cultural heritage sites in the affected areas also sustained damage.
He emphasized that alternative trekking routes must now be identified, as Langtang, Gosaikunda, Parbatikunda, and Nathali trails have been severely impacted.
The minister shared that the ministry has advanced a plan to develop flood-hit areas as “climate heritage.” He explained that the decision, made in consultation with stakeholders, includes constructing museums, parks, monuments, and other structures to preserve the memory of the disaster.
Paudel stressed that Nepal has faced a massive disaster caused by climate change, noting that Nepalis are suffering consequences of a mistake the country did not commit.
Tourism sector suffers Rs 52.13 billion loss as Bhotekoshi floo...
He underscored that the international community should provide Nepal with necessary assistance and modern technology, particularly early-warning systems to address risks posed by glacial lakes in the Himalayan region. He added that Nepal will seek to acquire such technologies already in use in other countries.
Minister Paudel praised Nepali airline companies and helicopter operators for their significant contributions to rescue and relief efforts, calling their role a vital service to the nation.
He also thanked hotel entrepreneurs for arranging free accommodation and food for flood-affected people in Pokhara, Chitwan, Kathmandu, and other locations.
The minister said the government has begun setting up help desks at Tribhuvan International Airport and other key sites to assist affected tourists and their families, with coordination underway among ministries and embassies.
He stressed the importance of effective international communication to prevent negative perceptions of Nepal’s tourism sector following the disaster.
“The message must be spread worldwide that Nepal is safe and its tourism industry is ready to welcome international visitors,” Paudel said. “Natural disasters can happen anywhere in the world. They cannot destroy Nepal’s tourism industry. We are still standing and ready to welcome tourists.”
He further noted that Nepal must inform the international community about the suffering it faces due to climate change, while also assuring that the country remains open for tourism.
Paudel announced that a decision has been made to establish a welfare fund for tourism sector workers. He said coordination is ongoing with the Ministry of Finance to address complications in insurance claims, particularly where the status of people missing in the flood remains uncertain.
The minister concluded by highlighting that, as in past national disasters, Nepali society has once again come together beyond politics, showing unity in rescue and relief efforts.
