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Nepal's GenZ Protests: 77 Dead, Billions Lost Amid Political Turmoil

A shocking government report has detailed the devastating human and economic cost of Nepal's GenZ protests in early September. The unrest resulted in 77 tragic deaths and caused billions in damages to both public and private property. These massive protests ultimately forced a major political shift, toppling the previous government. The findings highlight the deep impact of the youth-led movement on the nation's infrastructure and political landscape.

Key Points: Nepal GenZ Protests Death Toll Damage Report Revealed

  • Protests caused NPR 84.45 billion in damages, destroying 2,671 buildings and 12,659 vehicles
  • The movement led to the fall of KP Sharma Oli's government, paving way for PM Sushila Karki
  • Over 2,400 people were injured, with a majority being youth between 13 and 28 years old
  • Major hotels, retail chains, and government buildings in Singha Durbar were targeted in arson attacks
2 min read

GenZ protests in Nepal leave 77 dead, NPR 84 billion in damages: Report

A government report reveals 77 dead and NPR 84 billion in damages from Nepal's September GenZ protests that toppled the Oli government.

"The country witnessed massive destruction of public and private property on September 9, in response to the killing of GenZ protesters the previous day. - Report"

Kathmandu, Dec 11

Nepal witnessed the loss of 77 lives and damage to physical property worth NPR 84.45 billion during the GenZ protests in early September, a government-formed committee has revealed.

The committee formed to assess the damages caused during the GenZ movement on September 8 and 9, and to prepare a plan for the reconstruction of public infrastructure, submitted its report to Prime Minister Sushila Karki on Thursday.

According to the Prime Minister’s Secretariat, 20 people died on September 8, followed by 37 on September 9, and 20 more in the following days, bringing the total death toll to 77. The country witnessed massive destruction of public and private property on September 9, in response to the killing of GenZ protesters the previous day.

Citing the report of the committee headed by National Planning Commission Secretary Ravilal Pantha, a total of 2,429 people were injured during the nationwide protests.

Of those injured, 17 are below 13 years of age, while 1,433 are between 13 and 28 years old. A total of 54 out of 77 districts and 262 local levels were affected during the GenZ protests, which brought down the KP Sharma Oli–led government and paved the way for the current one led by Karki.

Regarding damage to physical infrastructure, government property worth NPR 44.93 billion was destroyed, while losses in the private sector are estimated at NPR 33.54 billion.

Important government buildings, including those inside Singha Durbar - the main administrative centre of the Nepali government - were torched. Several outlets of Bhatbhateni Departmental Store, the country’s largest retail chain; Hotel Hilton Kathmandu; Hyatt Regency Kathmandu; and the warehouse of the Chaudhary Group, promoted by Nepal’s only billionaire Binod Chaudhary, were severely damaged in arson attacks.

A total of 2,671 buildings were damaged, with estimated losses amounting to NPR 39.31 billion. Likewise, 12,659 vehicles were damaged, resulting in losses totalling NPR 12.93 billion.

The community and other sectors suffered damages worth NPR 5.97 billion. Among the government-sector losses, 68 per cent fall under the federal government, while the provincial and local levels account for 10 per cent and 22 per cent, respectively, the report reveals.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
The numbers are shocking. 77 dead and billions in damage. While the youth have a right to protest, violence and destruction of public property is never the answer. It only sets back development for everyone.
V
Vikram M
This shows what happens when the government fails to listen to its youth. The GenZ worldwide is demanding change. The loss of life is tragic, but so is ignoring the voices of the future. The Oli government had to go.
P
Priya S
So much destruction of private businesses like Bhatbhateni and hotels. This hurts the common Nepali the most - lost jobs, lost livelihoods. Protest should not mean burning down your own country's economy. Very sad.
R
Rohit P
As an Indian, I feel for our brothers and sisters in Nepal. We have seen similar unrest in our own states. The key is dialogue. Hope the new government under Karki engages with the youth and addresses their grievances peacefully.
M
Michael C
The report says 17 injured were below 13. Children should never be caught in political violence. Where were the parents? Where was the police protection? This is a complete failure of public safety.
K
Kavya N
Respectfully, while the protest may have had a cause, the methods were wrong. Burning Singha Dur

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