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25 September 2006 The World Conservation Union (IUCN) today is mourning the victims of the helicopter crash in Nepal. The helicopter was returning from an inauguration ceremony to hand over management of the Kangchenjunga conservation area to local communities. The 24 passengers believed to have died included Mr Gopal Rai, Nepalese Minister of State of Forests and Soil Conservation, Director General Narayan Poudel of the Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation, government officials, local media and seven WWF staff. Many of the victims were members of IUCN’s World Commission on Protected Areas and Species Survival Commission, and worked for IUCN member organizations including the Nepalese Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation and WWF. Bill Jackson, Director of IUCN’s Global Programme, lived and worked in Nepal for many years and personally knew many of the believed victims from both the government and the WWF network. “Many of these remarkable people were dear friends. Their tragic loss will be severely felt in Nepal and in the conservation family worldwide, as equally as in my own family.” On behalf of all IUCN members and staff, the Director General expressed his deepest condolences to the families, friends and colleagues of the victims. The World Conservation Union President, Council members in the region, and IUCN staff in Asia and its Nepal country office also expressed shock at the news of the tragic accident. The Union is stunned by the sense of loss that will clearly have a deep impact on the cause of conservation in Asia in general and Nepal in particular. Everyone on board the ill-fated helicopter was part of a closely knit group of conservationists who have worked over the years to conserve so much of Nepal’s heritage. Their absence will be keenly felt and their legacy gratefully acknowledged. More information:
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