First-Ever World Glacier Day Celebrated in Nepal

The United Nations has declared 2025 as the International Year of Glaciers’ Preservation and designated March 21 as the annual World Day for Glaciers. Nepal marked this historic occasion with key stakeholders, highlighting the crucial role of glaciers, snow, and ice in the climate system, hydrological cycle, and their economic, social, and environmental significance.

The event was graced by Hon’ble Mr. Ain Bahadur Shahi Thakuri, Minister for Forest and Environment, as the Chief Guest, with Prof. Dr. Achyut Prasad Wagle, Vice Chancellor of Kathmandu University, chairing the program. Hon’ble Kusumdevi Thapa, Chair of the Agriculture, Cooperative & Natural Resources Committee, attended as the Special Guest, while Sudarshan Neupane, Country Director of WaterAid Nepal, and Dr. Pema Gyamtsho, Director General of ICIMOD, delivered special remarks.

The event featured scientific sessions on establishing legal liability for glacier-related hazards, resilient hydropower development, and field-based observations of the 2024 Thame Glacier Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF). A panel discussion on melting glaciers, their preservation, and associated challenges further emphasized the urgent need for climate action to protect glaciers and secure water resources.

Additionally, the UN World Water Development Report 2025 was officially launched during the event. A photo exhibition showcasing mountains and glaciers, with contributions from Abiral Rai, added a visual representation of the significance of glacier preservation.

Some glimpse: