Nepal's Gen Z Uprising: Flights Grounded as Youth Demand Change Amidst Growing Unrest

A storm of discontent is brewing in the heart of the Himalayas as Nepal’s Generation Z takes to the streets, igniting widespread protests that have now begun to disrupt international travel. Fueled by a potent mix of economic stagnation, rampant unemployment, and deep-seated frustration with political corruption, the youth movement is shaking the foundations of the nation, prompting major Indian carriers Air India and IndiGo to temporarily suspend their flights to and from Kathmandu.

The capital city of Kathmandu, usually bustling with tourists and local life, has become the epicenter of this youthful uprising.

Thousands of young Nepalis, many of whom are educated but jobless, are marching with fervent demands for accountability, better economic opportunities, and an end to the perceived misgovernance that they believe has stifled their future. Social media platforms are awash with images and videos of these demonstrations, showcasing a generation unwilling to be silent.

The reasons behind this surge of anger are multifaceted.

Nepal, still recovering from the economic shocks of the pandemic, is grappling with soaring inflation, a struggling tourism sector—a vital pillar of its economy—and a government that many accuse of being out of touch with the aspirations of its younger population. The promise of a brighter future seems distant for many, leading to a palpable sense of disillusionment that has now boiled over into public defiance.

The ripple effects of this growing unrest have quickly reached beyond Nepal’s borders.

Concerned about the safety of their passengers and crew, and anticipating operational challenges amidst the volatile environment, both Air India and IndiGo announced their decision to temporarily halt services to Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport. This move, while necessary for safety, underscores the severity of the situation and adds another layer of complexity to Nepal's already strained economy, particularly impacting its crucial tourism industry and the thousands of daily commuters between India and Nepal.

The suspension of flights serves as a stark reminder of how deeply interconnected regional stability and economic health are.

For travellers, it means immediate disruptions and the need to seek alternative routes or postpone plans. For Nepal, it highlights the urgent need for its government to address the core grievances of its youth. The protests are not merely a plea for change; they are a forceful declaration from a generation demanding to be heard, demanding a stake in their own country's destiny.

How the Nepali government responds to this unprecedented youth movement will undoubtedly shape the nation's trajectory in the months and years to come.