KATHMANDU: Khabarhub brings you a glimpse of major developments of the day in Nepal, including politics, business/economy, sports, entertainment, and more.
Death toll in Makwanpur EV accident reaches 14
The death toll from the passenger electric vehicle (EV) accident at Chisapani Gadhi in Bhimphedi Rural Municipality-6, Makwanpur, has risen to 14 following the recovery of three additional bodies from the accident site. All 14 people who died in the accident have now been identified, while six others sustained injuries, according to the District Police Office, Makwanpur. Deputy Superintendent of Police Madhav Kafle, spokesperson for the District Police Office, said the deceased included five women and children and nine men.
Five-member committee formed to investigate fatal Makwanpur accident
The District Administration Office, Makwanpur, has formed a five-member committee to investigate the cause of the fatal electric vehicle accident in Bhimphedi that claimed 14 lives and left six others injured. According to Chief District Officer (CDO) Basanta Adhikari, the committee, coordinated by the Assistant Chief District Officer, will begin its investigation on Thursday. The committee comprises the Assistant Chief District Officer, the in-charge of the Traffic Police, an engineer from the Ministry of Physical Infrastructure Development and a legal officer from the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Law. CDO Adhikari said the committee has been instructed to submit its investigation report within seven days. Sharing preliminary details of the accident, Adhikari said the vehicle had left Kathmandu at around 2:00 am on Thursday, reached Deurali at approximately 5:15 am and met with the accident at Chisapani Gadhi at around 5:45 am.
Defending champions Lumbini Lions become first team to qualify for NPL playoffs
Defending champions Lumbini Lions have become the first team to secure a place in the playoffs of the third edition of the Nepal Premier League (NPL). Lumbini booked their playoff berth with a match to spare after defeating Karnali Yaks by six wickets in a low-scoring encounter on Thursday. Chasing a target of 106 runs set by Karnali, Lumbini reached 106/4 in 16.4 overs, winning the match with 20 balls remaining. With the victory, Lumbini climbed to the top of the standings with nine points from six matches. They will face Biratnagar Kings in their final league-stage fixture. Meanwhile, Karnali’s hopes of reaching the playoffs have suffered a setback following their fourth consecutive defeat. After winning their opening two matches, Karnali have now lost four games in a row. They remain seventh in the standings with four points from six matches.
NPL: Biratnagar defeat Pokhara by four wickets
Biratnagar Kings defeated Pokhara Avengers by four wickets in the third edition of the Nepal Premier League (NPL) cricket tournament on Thursday, keeping their playoff hopes alive. Chasing Pokhara’s target of 133 runs, Biratnagar reached 133 for six in 19.2 overs. Basir Ahamad top-scored for Biratnagar with 37 runs, while Lokesh Bam contributed 33 and Imran Sheikh added 10. Isuru Udana remained unbeaten on 25, while Shehan Jayasuriya scored 17 runs. For Pokhara, Kushel Bhurtel and Ramesh Mendis claimed two wickets each, while Bipin Khatri and Dhananjay Lakshan took one wicket apiece. Earlier, Pokhara, after winning the toss and electing to bat, were bowled out for 132 runs in 17.5 overs at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur.
Foreign Minister Khanal calls for global solidarity to address climate crisis
Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal has described climate change as a common global challenge that requires stronger regional cooperation and international solidarity to address its growing impacts. He made the remarks while addressing a side event organized at the Nepal Pavilion during the ongoing 31st United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP31) in Antalya, Türkiye. Speaking at a programme titled ‘Regional Cooperation Mechanism for the Hindu Kush Himalaya: Lessons from Transboundary Climate Disasters’, Khanal emphasized the need to strengthen regional cooperation to protect the Hindu Kush Himalayan region from the escalating impacts of climate change. He said climate change transcended national boundaries, making regional and global solidarity essential to tackling its consequences collectively.
Nepal calls for grant-based climate finance to protect Himalayan ecosystems
Minister for Agriculture, Forest and Environment Geeta Chaudhary has called for stronger international solidarity and grant-based climate financing to protect the Himalayan ecosystem and communities increasingly vulnerable to climate change. Addressing a discussion titled ‘Living Everest: Global Solidarity and Mobilization of Climate Finance’ at the Nepal Pavilion during the ongoing 31st United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP31) in Türkiye, Chaudhary described the Himalayas as a vital life-support system for humanity and urged the international community to step up efforts to safeguard the region. She noted that the Himalayas provide water, clean air and essential biodiversity resources to more than two billion people living downstream, while the impacts of climate change are becoming increasingly severe across the mountain region.
Former DPM Top Bahadur Rayamajhi released from prison
CPN-UML leader and former Deputy Prime Minister Top Bahadur Rayamajhi, who was serving a prison sentence in the fake Bhutanese refugee scam, has been released from Dillibazar Prison. The 65-year-old former minister was released on Thursday morning after receiving a sentence reduction under the provisions applicable to senior citizens. The Kathmandu District Court had directed the prison authorities to release Rayamajhi in accordance with the senior citizen provisions following an application he submitted to the court. Rayamajhi was arrested on May 3, 2023, in connection with the fake Bhutanese refugee scam. On July 14, 2026, the Kathmandu District Court sentenced him to four years in prison for his involvement in the case. However, he received a 25 percent reduction in his prison term under the legal provisions granting sentence concessions to senior citizens, leading to his release.
Climate crisis is outpacing global action, warns UN Secretary-General
UN Secretary-General António Guterres has warned that the climate crisis is advancing faster than global efforts to address it, urging world leaders to accelerate climate action and strengthen international cooperation. “Our first climate duty is to tell the truth. The brutal truth is that the climate crisis is outrunning us,” Guterres said while addressing the COP31 Leaders’ Summit in Antalya on Wednesday. Warning of the worsening climate situation, he said global greenhouse gas emissions reached record levels in 2025, while temperature records continued to be broken. He also noted that the past four years had been the hottest on record and criticized fossil fuel companies for continuing to profit at the expense of the planet. According to Guterres, climate-related disasters are increasingly devastating lives, livelihoods and economies worldwide, pushing the planet towards a dangerous path of mutually assured destruction.
Foreign Minister Khanal calls for stronger, community-centred early warning systems
Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal has stressed the need to make early warning systems more effective, reliable and community-centred to minimize human casualties and economic losses caused by climate-related disasters. Addressing a high-level programme titled ‘Early Warnings for All: Delivering on Our Promise to Protect Everyone’ held on the sidelines of the 31st United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP31) in Antalya, Türkiye, Khanal described early warning systems as a crucial line of defence between life and risk for communities in the Himalayan region. Sharing Nepal’s experiences of recent climate-induced disasters, he said the country’s early warning system had sent millions of SMS alerts during the initial stages of the disaster, while communities in vulnerable low-lying areas had also received locally issued warnings. However, he acknowledged that these measures alone were insufficient to prevent losses.
RSP Chair Lamichhane expresses grief over fatal Bhimphedi accident
Chairman of the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), Rabi Lamichhane, has expressed deep sorrow over the fatal road accident in Bhimphedi, Makawanpur, on Thursday morning. In a post on social media, Lamichhane said he was deeply saddened by the news that 14 people from the same locality had lost their lives in the tragic accident. At least 10 people were killed and five others injured when a vehicle travelling from Kathmandu to Sarlahi plunged approximately 700 metres off the road at Bhimphedi on Thursday morning. Paying tribute to those who lost their lives, Lamichhane extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and wished the injured a speedy and full recovery.
NC President Gagan Thapa expresses grief over fatal Bhimphedi microbus accident
Nepali Congress (NC) President Gagan Thapa has expressed deep sorrow over the fatal microbus accident in Chisapani Gadhi, Bhimphedi Rural Municipality-6, Makawanpur, which claimed 14 lives. In a condolence message issued on Thursday, Thapa said he was deeply shocked and saddened by reports of the accident involving a microbus travelling from Kathmandu to Sundarpur in Sarlahi. He paid tribute to those who lost their lives and extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. He also wished a speedy recovery to the injured and expressed hope that the grieving families would find the strength to cope with their loss.
High-level RSP delegation to visit China
A high-level delegation of the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) is set to visit China beginning November 15 at the formal invitation of the Communist Party of China (CPC). The 19-member delegation, led by RSP General Secretary Bipin Acharya, will visit China for experience-sharing and discussions on a range of issues, including good governance, economic development, public service delivery, institutional capacity building, and political leadership that responds to people’s expectations, party spokesperson Jagdish Kharel said. According to a statement issued by Kharel, the visit is expected to provide an opportunity to strengthen mutual understanding, promote political dialogue, and expand development cooperation between Nepal and China.
Prisoner escapes from Birgunj Jail during cleaning work
A prisoner has escaped from Birgunj Jail in Parsa district while carrying out cleaning work on the prison premises on Thursday. The escaped prisoner has been identified as Sunil Sah of Satabariya, Pokhariya Municipality. He was serving a sentence in a rape case. According to Deputy Superintendent of Police Chakra Bahadur Malla, Sah escaped after breaching the prison’s security arrangements while cleaning the premises. Following the incident, teams from the District Police Office, Parsa, and the Armed Police Force have been mobilized to search for the fugitive, Malla told RSS. As Birgunj lies close to the open border with India, security surveillance and checks have been tightened at border areas and major checkpoints amid concerns that the escaped prisoner could flee across the border.
One killed, 12 injured in jeep accident in Pokhara
One person was killed and 12 others injured when a jeep met with an accident at Dundephant in Pokhara Metropolitan City-23 last night. The deceased has been identified as 23-year-old Milan Gurung of Parbat district, who was residing in Pame, Pokhara Metropolitan City-24. According to the District Police Office, Kaski, Gurung sustained serious injuries in the accident and died this morning while undergoing treatment at Gandaki Medical College in Pokhara. The jeep was travelling towards Pokhara from Ghantichhina when the driver reportedly lost control of the vehicle, resulting in the accident.
Kaligandaki Corridor blocked after dry landslide in Gulmi
The Kaligandaki Corridor has been completely blocked since Wednesday night after a dry landslide carrying rocks fell onto the road at Rakse in Kaligandaki Rural Municipality-2, Gulmi. According to the District Police Office, a police team led by Police Assistant Inspector Baburam Shrestha from Purtighat Police Post has been deployed to the landslide site. Deputy Superintendent of Police Birendra Bir Bishwakarma said efforts were underway to clear the debris from the road in coordination with the local rural municipality and police personnel. The obstruction has stranded vehicles and passengers travelling from Gulmi towards Palpa, Butwal, Baglung, Parbat, Myagdi and Pokhara since Wednesday night, disrupting transportation during the Tihar festival period.
Police detain 33 people during search and sweep operation in Tanahun
Police have detained 33 people during a search and sweep operation conducted at various locations across Tanahun district. The operation was carried out by teams deployed from the District Police Office, Tanahun, and its subordinate police units as part of a special campaign to curb drug-related activities, gambling, illegal liquor production and distribution, theft and unauthorized extraction of natural resources. The campaign also aims to maintain law and order, ensure public security and apprehend individuals absconding after being charged with criminal offences. According to Deputy Superintendent of Police Dwarika Prasad Ghimire of the District Police Office, four of the 33 people detained during the operation have been handed over to their respective families, while further investigations are underway against the remaining 29.
Nepal pledges to strengthen locally led climate adaptation through LIFE-AR
Nepal has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing the Least Developed Countries Initiative for Effective Adaptation and Resilience (LIFE-AR), with a focus on ensuring that climate finance reaches local communities and supports their priorities through locally led adaptation initiatives. inister for Agriculture, Forestry and Environment Geeta Chaudhary said Nepal viewed LIFE-AR not merely as a financing mechanism but as an opportunity to transform how climate action is planned, financed and implemented. She made the remarks while addressing the official announcement of the LIFE-AR Facility on November 11 on the sidelines of the 31st United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP31) in Antalya. Describing Nepal as a mountainous country endowed with rich natural resources and unique ecosystems, Minister Chaudhary said the country contributed very little to global greenhouse gas emissions but faced disproportionately severe consequences of climate change.
Kathmandu Valley’s minimum temperature drops to 8 degrees Celsius
Temperatures in the Kathmandu Valley have continued to fall, with the minimum temperature dropping to 8 degrees Celsius on Thursday morning. According to the Weather Forecasting Division, the preliminary measurement recorded at 5:45 am showed the Valley’s minimum temperature at 8 degrees Celsius. It said the temperature could decline further before the final measurement at 8:45 am, as minimum temperatures during colder weather conditions may continue to fall until sunrise. However, the temperature may sometimes remain unchanged.
Food grain imports through Birgunj border decline by 63 percent
Food grain imports through the Birgunj border point declined by approximately 63 percent during the first three months of the current fiscal year 2083/84 BS compared to the corresponding period of the previous fiscal year. According to the Birgunj Customs Office, a total of 31.64 million kilograms of food grains, including rice, maize, wheat, paddy, malt, sorghum and millet, were imported from Shrawan to Asoj this fiscal year. During the same period last fiscal year, imports stood at 87.047 million kilograms. Krishna Prasad Mainali, Chief Customs Administrator at the office, said rice imports had also declined significantly. A total of 67.73 million kilograms of rice was imported during the first three months of the current fiscal year, compared to 94.1 million kilograms in the corresponding period last year. The reported value of rice imports, however, increased from Rs. 89.81 million to Rs. 700 million.
Gosainkunda tourism picks up as road access improves
Tourist arrivals in Gosainkunda, a renowned religious and natural attraction in Rasuwa district, have started increasing following a gradual improvement in road and trekking route conditions damaged by the Bhotekoshi River flood on August 26. The tourism sector, which had suffered a setback after the flood disrupted road access and trekking trails, is gradually returning to normal, with both domestic and international visitors beginning to return to the area. Chairperson of Gosainkunda Rural Municipality, Keisang Nurpu Tamang, said tourism activities affected by the disaster had started recovering. The growing number of visitors has brought relief to local hoteliers, trekking guides, transport operators and small business owners, he added.
When human suffering becomes social media content
What does it take to go viral on social media? A humorous video, an unusual activity, creative content or a topic that captures public attention? Increasingly, however, the race for views, likes and followers appears to be taking a troubling turn. Some content creators are now exploiting the pain, suffering and vulnerability of others to attract online attention and build their digital presence. Recently, videos featuring sick, disabled, mentally and physically challenged, and elderly people have become increasingly visible across social media platforms. While some are produced with the intention of raising awareness or seeking financial assistance, others appear to turn human suffering and helplessness into a source of entertainment and online popularity. In many such videos, an emotional scene is presented at the beginning, followed by images of an individual’s illness, disability, personal struggles or difficult living conditions. Emotional background music, dramatic storytelling and appeals for financial assistance are often used to evoke sympathy among viewers. Some audiences respond with emotional comments, expressions of concern and requests for help. In certain cases, these videos do succeed in mobilizing public support and financial assistance.
COP31 calls for stronger climate finance and disaster resilience
Senior officials at the 31st United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP31) have called for effective implementation of global climate commitments, accelerated expansion of clean energy, improved access to climate finance and stronger disaster resilience. Addressing a high-level session of heads of state and government, UN Climate Change Executive Secretary Simon Stiell, COP31 President and Türkiye’s Minister of Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change Murat Kurum, and COP31 Negotiation Chair Chris Bowen underscored that climate change has emerged as one of the most pressing global challenges, requiring stronger and more effective international cooperation. Executive Secretary Stiell emphasized that climate action must be linked to national security, economic stability and people’s livelihoods. He also called for increased support to developing countries that are particularly vulnerable to climate impacts. He noted that international cooperation had helped lower projections of global temperature rise from more than 4 degrees Celsius to around 2.6 degrees Celsius.
Foreign Minister Khanal urges media to ensure balanced and informed reporting on COP31
Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal has called on media organizations to report on the ongoing 31st United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP31) with sensitivity, accuracy and a proper understanding of the conference’s processes and objectives. He stressed that journalists should familiarize themselves with the COP negotiation process before preparing reports, cautioning against portraying the conference negatively at its early stage or suggesting that no progress has been made. “It is not appropriate to present a bleak picture when COP31 has only just begun. Reporting should not create the impression that no achievements have been made, as journalists need to understand the COP process, its objectives and the broader context,” he said.
Hailstorm damages ripening paddy crops in Bhojpur
Sudden hailstorms that struck various parts of Bhojpur district on Wednesday have damaged paddy crops that were nearing harvest, leaving local farmers concerned about further losses. The hailstorm hit at a critical time when farmers were preparing to harvest and bring in their paddy. The crops, which had ripened in the fields, suffered damage due to the unexpected weather event. Dhan Bahadur Thapa, a local farmer from Bhojpur Municipality-5, said the hailstorm had damaged paddy fields and raised concerns among farmers about the possibility of further hailstorms. “An unexpected hailstorm struck the area yesterday, and farmers are increasingly worried that it may happen again. If such weather conditions continue, paddy production could suffer significant losses,” he said.
Nepali athletes to compete in Asian Bodybuilding Championship in Thailand
Nepali athletes are set to compete in the Asian Bodybuilding Championship scheduled to take place in Pattaya, Thailand, from November 13 to 16. Chairperson of the Nepal Olympic Committee, Jivan Ram Shrestha, bade farewell to the Nepali team on Wednesday, wishing its members success in the international competition. On the occasion, Shrestha encouraged the athletes to give their best performances and represent Nepal with pride on the international stage. Anish Thapa and Asim Babu will represent Nepal in the championship. The delegation also includes coach Ram Bahadur Dahal and Ajay Kumar Bajracharya, general secretary of the Nepal Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation.
44 people arrested for gambling in Kathmandu and Tanahun
Police have arrested 44 people from Kathmandu and Tanahun districts on charges of gambling in two separate operations. In Kathmandu, police arrested 37 people, including 34-year-old Kumar Lama, owner of Kushum Chyamba House and Home Stay, while they were allegedly gambling at the establishment in Gagalpedi, Kageshwari Manohara Municipality-1, on Thursday. A police team deployed from Bouddha Police Circle seized Rs 578,555 in cash and 16 sets of gambling cards from the location, according to the Central Police News Room. Similarly, police arrested seven people, including 66-year-old hotel owner Lok Bahadur Shrestha, while they were allegedly gambling at Kathmandu Mam Hotel in Ratnachok, Bhimad Municipality-6, Tanahun. Police seized Rs 150,540 in cash and four sets of gambling cards from the hotel. Further investigation into both incidents is underway.
Five arrested with drugs in separate police operations
Police have arrested five people from different parts of the country on charges of possessing illegal drugs during routine patrol operations. According to the Central Police News Room, two people were arrested from Pathari-Shanishchare Municipality-4 in Morang, one from Bange in Barahakshetra Municipality-7, Sunsari, and two from Duduwa Rural Municipality-2 in Banke. Police recovered suspected brown heroin, marijuana and prescription drugs, including Tramadol and Spaspan, from their possession. In a separate incident, police seized approximately 231 kilograms of marijuana from Balan Khola in Balan Bihul Rural Municipality-4, Saptari, near the border between Siraha and Saptari districts.
Comment