Indian man arrested after balloon explosion injures Nepal's deputy PM
What's the story
An Indian national, Kamlesh Kumar, has been arrested in Nepal after a balloon exploded at a tourism event, injuring Deputy Prime Minister Bishnu Paudel. The incident took place during the 'Visit Pokhara Year 2025' inauguration ceremony. It also left Mayor Dhanraj Acharya of Pokhara Metropolitan City with minor burn injuries. Per reports, Kumar had filled the balloons with hydrogen gas, which exploded on contact with lit candles.
Twitter Post
Video of the event
बेलुन फुटेर आगो सल्किँदा अर्थमन्त्री विष्णु पौडेल र पोखरा महानगरपालिकाका प्रमुख धनराज आचार्य घाइेत भएका छन्। pic.twitter.com/ECIt4H3kuo
— Bipin Sapkota (@bipinsapkota213) February 15, 2025
Viral incident
Balloon explosion incident goes viral, investigation underway
Paudel was later airlifted to Kathmandu for treatment. He has since been discharged from Kirtipur Burn Hospital after receiving the necessary care. Meanwhile, Mayor Acharya continues to be under medical supervision as he recovers from the injuries he sustained. Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak has formed an investigation committee to look into the details of the explosion.
Event
Visit Pokhara Year aims to attract two million tourists
Paudel, who is also the finance minister, was at the event for the inauguration of 'Visit Pokhara Year,' aimed at attracting two million tourists in 2025. For the event, a 1,050-member organizing committee was formed, with Mayor Acharya at the helm. In addition, the mayor will chair the event's Directorate Committee, which will be supported by 43 subcommittees.