The devastating floods and landslides that have swept across Nepal have claimed over 200 lives, with many more still missing. Thousands of families have been displaced, forced into an uncertain future as entire neighbourhoods in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and other regions have been washed away by relentless floodwaters.

This disaster is part of a disturbing pattern of extreme weather events that have also recently affected South Asia. Just months ago, the region experienced record-breaking heatwaves, and now severe monsoon rains have compounded the devastation. Climate change poses an existential threat to humanity, not only destroys homes but also uproots livelihoods and claims lives.

For workers in construction, forestry, and materials—who are the outdoor and frontline labourers—this crisis manifests in the form of increased heat stress, extreme weather, and unsafe working conditions.

Pradip Acharya, Coordinator, Building and Wood Workers’ International (BWI)-Nepal Affiliates Committee remarked "The floods and landslides in Nepal have impacted livelihoods of thousands of workers and have also caused widespread loss of life and property in the affected areas. The BWI-NAC constituent unions CUPPEC, CAWUN and ANCWU have initiated outreach efforts to assist the members and workers by making available food grains and essential medicines. Additionally, the government reportedly has also announced financial relief and the unions are ensuring that the relief reaches the affected." 

BWI extends its deepest condolences to the victims of this catastrophe and their grieving families. The 12 million-strong global union reaffirms its unwavering commitment to climate justice and calls for global solidarity with the people of Nepal and workers worldwide.

Photos: GEFONT and CUPPEC