Tribhuvan International Airport shutdown extended to 6 PM amid escalating unrest; Indian volleyball organizer attacked, hotel torched
Nepal’s crisis reached new heights Wednesday as Tribhuvan International Airport authorities extended the closure of Kathmandu’s main airport until 6 PM, significantly longer than the initially announced noon deadline. All domestic, international flights, and private helicopter services remain suspended, with no aircraft permitted to arrive or depart during this period.
The airport closure reflects the deteriorating security situation across the capital as protests continue to rage uncontrolled.
Foreign Nationals Under Attack
The violence has now begun targeting foreign visitors, raising serious concerns about Nepal’s international reputation. Upasana Gill, an Indian woman who came to Nepal to host a volleyball league, issued a desperate video appeal for help from the Indian government after protesters torched her hotel and chased her with sticks.
“They burned down the hotel where I was staying and several protesters attacked me with rods,” Gill said in her video message, highlighting how the unrest has begun endangering international visitors and potentially damaging Nepal’s crucial tourism sector.
The targeting of foreign nationals marks a dangerous escalation in the crisis, as it risks drawing international diplomatic pressure and could severely impact Nepal’s tourism-dependent economy.
UN Secretary-General Expresses Grave Concern
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has expressed serious concern over the ongoing protests in Nepal, particularly regarding the reported deaths during demonstrations. In a post on social media platform X, Guterres called for thorough investigations into these incidents and urged all parties to exercise restraint to prevent further deterioration of the situation.
“I call for dialogue as the path to resolution,” Guterres stated, emphasizing the need for peaceful solutions to the crisis.
The UN chief specifically appealed to authorities to comply with human rights laws and urged protesters to demonstrate peacefully while respecting life and property. His intervention signals growing international attention on Nepal’s internal crisis and adds diplomatic pressure for a peaceful resolution.
The UN statement comes as the international community watches Nepal’s democratic institutions face unprecedented challenges from the ongoing unrest.
About The Author
