Nepal Protests Escalate as Historic Buildings Burn and Leaders Flee

Nepal is facing severe unrest. Youth-led protests against government corruption have turned deadly. Over 20 people have died in the clashes this week.

The Nepali army has taken full security control. The situation remains highly volatile across the country.

Kathmandu Hilton Hotel and Government Buildings Set Ablaze

Protesters set fire to the Hilton hotel in Kathmandu. It is the tallest hotel in Nepal. Drone footage shows one side of the multi-storey building completely charred.

Plumes of smoke continued to rise from the structure for hours. According to the Kathmandu Post, a fire brigade official confirmed extensive damage. Most of the hotel’s infrastructure and properties were burnt.

Another iconic building was also torched. The Ministry of Health and Population building was a noted architectural marvel. It was designed by famed American architect Louis I Kahn in 1965.

Finance Minister Chased by Angry Protesters

Shocking videos circulating online show the intensity of the anger. One unconfirmed video purports to show the country’s finance minister fleeing a mob. He was reportedly chased into a river for his safety.

Reuters imagery confirms the widespread destruction in the capital. The country’s Parliament and Supreme Court buildings were also targeted by protesters. The youth are demanding accountability for alleged rampant corruption among officials.

The movement is being driven by frustration with political leaders. The term “nepo kids” has been used to describe the privileged children of officials. This perceived nepotism has fueled the fire of public outrage.

Travel Disruptions and Regional Impact

The unrest has severely disrupted travel. Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport was shut down for over 24 hours. It has since resumed services, according to ANI reports.

The Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) took action. It suspended the Delhi-Kathmandu international bus service. This service is known as the Maitri Bus Sewa, symbolizing India-Nepal ties.

An official stated the service will resume once the situation normalizes. The security of travelers remains the top priority for all involved.

The Nepal protests highlight a deep generational clash over governance and corruption. The path to resolution remains uncertain as the nation grapples with this significant turmoil.

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What sparked the protests in Nepal?

The protests were sparked by widespread anger against alleged government corruption. Youth-led demonstrators are demanding accountability from political leaders. The movement grew rapidly across the country.

Which major buildings were damaged?

Protesters set fire to the Hilton Hotel, the Parliament, and the Supreme Court. A historic Health Ministry building designed by Louis Kahn was also burned. The damage to these structures is extensive.

Has there been any international response?

Neighboring India has suspended its Delhi-Kathmandu bus service. Other nations are monitoring the situation closely. Official government responses are still emerging.

Is it safe to travel to Nepal currently?

The airport in Kathmandu has reopened after a 24-hour closure. Travelers should exercise extreme caution and check with their airlines. The overall security situation remains fluid.

Trusted Sources: Reuters, Associated Press, Kathmandu Post, BBC News, Hindustan Times