DEAR COMPATRIOTS AND FRIENDS,
Over the past decade, scientists have recorded a rising number of glacier collapses as climate change thaws permafrost at an unprecedented rate. The latest heartbreaking consequence of this is a catastrophic flash flood caused by a glacial outburst in the border region of Nepal.
To date, the disaster has claimed nearly 700 lives, with approximately 3,000 people still missing — severely impacting victims across Nepal and Gyirong County in the Tibet Autonomous Region (China). Notably, at least 540 foreigners from 23 countries are among the victims, most of whom were Hindu pilgrims traveling from India.
Amidst the devastation, a deeply moving story has emerged as a beacon of hope: Principal Rajendra Dawadi, upon receiving an urgent warning call from a colleague 8 kilometers upstream, immediately evacuated 1,642 students to high ground. Just 6 minutes later, the entire school was completely flattened by the raging torrent.
According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the flash flood was triggered by a massive glacier collapse that released energy equivalent to a 5.2-magnitude earthquake, setting off a series of severe landslides that devastated the region.
Our ancestors taught us: "The intact leaf protects the tattered leaf" and "When one horse falls ill, the entire stable refuses grass." In this spirit of mutual love and solidarity, the Unified Vietnamese Buddhist Congregation of Australia and New Zealand, alongside Quang Minh Temple, will co-host a charity event:
BUFFET LUNCH FUNDRAISER FOR NEPAL DISASTER RELIEF
- Time: 11:00 AM, Sunday, September 13, 2026
- Venue: Quang Minh Temple
Your presence and generosity will provide immense comfort, helping to heal the pain and empower those whose lives have been shattered by this disaster. We warmly invite our community and friends from near and far to join us and lend your support.
Our heartfelt gratitude to you all. Wishing you peace, health, and happiness.
Dr. Pham Phuc Nhan