Nepal risks second humanitarian crisis due to blockade: UK

KATHMANDU: The UK has cautioned Nepal that it risks a second humanitarian crisis if the two-month-old protest by Indian-origin Madhesis is not resolved through dialogue and compromise.

Minister of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Office, Hugo Swire, also expressed serious concerns over the blockade by Madhesi protesters near the India-Nepal border will have on the supply and distribution of humanitarian assistance to the quake-hit people in the land-locked country.

Swire, called up Nepal's Deputy Prime Minister Kamal Thapa yesterday and held talks over the issue. The two had a positive and constructive discussion, said a statment by the British Embassy here.

"Increasingly concerned by attacks on medical services & humanitarian impact of border blockage. Urge peaceful dialogue and compromise," he later tweeted.

Swire urged Nepal government to provide the leadership required for the reconstruction process, following the 7.8 magnitude earthquake in April that killed nearly 8,900 people.

He cautioned Thapa that Nepal risks a second humanitarian crisis if the situation was not resolved before the winter.

Nepal has been facing shortage of goods and medicines due the protests by Indian-origin Madhesi people, who say the new Constitution discriminates against their community.

The Madhesis, who have close ethnic ties to north India, have been blockading the Indian border for two months.

Swire, however, assured Thapa of UK's continued support and friendship and made clear that the political situation in the Himalayan country is ultimately for Nepal to resolve.