Standing in solidarity with the tragic Gyirong-Rasuwa flash flood victims

Photo: Jitendra Raj Bajracharya/ICIMOD

I am deeply saddened by the tragic loss of lives and devastation caused by the sudden flash flood in Rasuwa, Bagmati Province, Nepal, and Xizang (Tibet), China. My heart goes out to the families and loved ones of those who have lost their lives and to all those enduring the consequences of this tragedy. I also extend my deepest appreciation to all those working tirelessly on the ground in response and rescue efforts.

On behalf of ICIMOD, I extend our solidarity to the people and the Governments of Nepal and China at this difficult time. We stand ready to support the ongoing response and recovery efforts, drawing on the knowledge, science, data, and expertise available to us.

The speed and force of the flood, carrying large volumes of water, sediment, and boulders through the Bhote Koshi and Trishuli river systems, are deeply concerning. The potential for impacts further downstream is a reminder of how quickly a hazard in the mountains can become a wider regional concern. It also reinforces the importance of timely information, early warnings, preparedness, and coordinated action.

I am writing this message from Bhutan, where I am attending the Second HKH Parliamentarians’ Meet. Being here at this moment makes the importance of regional cooperation feel even more immediate and personal. The tragedy in Rasuwa (Nepal) and Kyirong (China) reminds us that the mountains we share, the rivers that connect us, and the communities that depend on them cannot be separated by national boundaries. Neither can the risks we face.

What happens in one part of the Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH) can have consequences far beyond it. This is why we need stronger cooperation, not only in times of crisis, but before disasters strike. We must share knowledge and data, strengthen early-warning systems, improve preparedness, and ensure that information reaches communities in time to save lives.

Our gathering in Bhutan is therefore not simply about dialogue. It is about turning our shared understanding into collective action. Regional cooperation must move from aspiration to sustained action, because the risks are growing faster than any one country can address alone.

The decisions we make today will shape the safety and well-being of generations to come. The people of the HKH deserve nothing less than our collective commitment to building a safer, more resilient future.

At ICIMOD, we remain committed to standing alongside the Governments of Nepal and China and working with all HKH countries to strengthen science, preparedness, resilience, and regional cooperation.

In moments such as this, solidarity must be more than words. It must translate into action, cooperation, and support.

Pema Gyamtsho