Qatari Princess Al Thani Decries Environmental Crisis in the Himalayas

Qatari Princess Sheikha Asma Al Thani has voiced her concerns about the drastic environmental changes in the Himalayas since she last visited in 2019. Noting that Everest now appears lifeless due to melting snow, she connects these changes to wider global threats. The recent glacial lake outburst flood further emphasizes the urgency for collective action to address these issues.

Qatari Princess Sheikha Asma Al Thani has raised alarm over the environmental changes in the Himalayas during a climbers’ conference in Thame, near Mount Everest. Expressing her worries about the rapid deterioration since her last visit in 2019, she noted that the mountains now appear “lifeless.” The Princess highlighted the melting snow on Everest as a global threat, emphasizing the implications for communities around the world.

During her visit, Princess Thani observed bare rocks and blackened cliffs, contrasting sharply with the snowy landscapes she remembered. She lamented the silence of the mountains, stating, “There is no life in these mountains anymore.” Her concerns were further stressed by the recent glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF) in 2023, which caused significant damage in the area, affecting families and infrastructure.

Princess Thani urged that these disasters are not isolated instances but rather indicators of a broader environmental crisis driven by human activity. She called for collective action, stating, “These are symptoms of a much larger, man-made emergency. And it’s not something Nepal can or should bear alone.” She highlighted the depletion of snow across the Himalayas, with local climbers noting that Everest needs urgent protection rather than mere admiration.

In conclusion, Princess Sheikha Asma Al Thani’s observations underscore the alarming environmental shifts occurring in the Himalayas, notably on Mount Everest. Her urgent call for global awareness and action highlights the link between local effects and broader environmental crises. The need for collective responsibility is paramount to protect these vital ecosystems against further degradation.

Original Source: risingnepaldaily.com