Qatari Princess Al Thani Highlights Environmental Crisis in the Himalayas
At a climbers’ conference, Qatari Princess Sheikha Asma Al Thani expressed alarm over the environmental changes in the Himalayas, describing the mountains as “lifeless” compared to her 2019 visit. She highlighted the dangers posed by melting snow and recent natural disasters, urging for global action to address the climate crisis affecting these regions.
On April 24, during a conference for climbers in Thame, Qatari Princess Sheikha Asma Al Thani, an experienced Everest climber, raised alarm about the alarming transformations in the Himalayan region. She characterized the mountains as “lifeless,” highlighting a stark contrast to her previous visit in 2019. The Princess noted that the rapid melting of snow on Mount Everest poses threats not only to Nepal but also to the global community as a whole.
Reflecting on her past experiences, Princess Thani noted, “I climbed Everest in 2019 and was mesmerized by its beauty and vitality.” Upon her return, she expressed distress at finding barren rocks and blackened cliffs in place of the magnificent snow she once admired. She conveyed, “There is no life in these mountains anymore,” indicating profound environmental change.
The Princess also addressed the devastating impact of a recent glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF) that has displaced numerous families, destroyed vital infrastructure, and cut off transportation links. Emphasizing the broader implications, she stated, “These are not isolated disasters. They are symptoms of a much larger, man-made emergency,” urging collective action rather than placing the burden solely on Nepal.
Furthermore, Princess Thani expressed concern regarding the decline of snow in the Himalayas. A local climber echoed her sentiments, stating, “Everest is no longer the white peak we remember from photos. It’s a fragile mountain now, and it needs protection, not just admiration,” underscoring the urgent need for awareness and conservation efforts.
In summary, Qatari Princess Sheikha Asma Al Thani’s remarks at the climbers’ conference underscore significant environmental changes in the Himalayas, particularly on Mount Everest. Her observations reveal a stark decline in the region’s vitality and an urgent call for global awareness and action to address the consequences of climate change. The Princess’s concerns, alongside those of local climbers, emphasize the fragility of these majestic mountains and the need for protective measures.
Original Source: risingnepaldaily.com
