FILE PHOTO: Partially submerged houses in Bedono village in Damak, Nepal which has suffered drastic land loss due to climate change. — AFP
KATHMANDU: Authorities have stepped up preparedness for potential disasters as heavy rainfall is forecast across several provinces from October 3 to 6.
The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority on Thursday (Oct 2) held a virtual meeting with chief district officers nationwide, which was also attended by senior officials.
Addressing the meeting, Home Minister Om Prakash Aryal directed agencies to complete all necessary preparations, remain alert and avoid past mistakes that had fuelled public dissatisfaction.
“The country faces political complexities, and peace and security are crucial. At such a time, disaster warnings have also emerged. Coordinate closely and leave no room for lapses. This is also a moment to connect with the people,” he said.
According to the Meteorological Forecasting Division, heavy to very heavy rainfall is likely in Koshi, Madhesh, Bagmati, Gandaki and Lumbini provinces.
Authority spokesperson Shanti Mahat said the meeting was organised in view of the forecast. It was attended by officials of the authority, chiefs of all four security agencies, disaster focal persons, 77 chief district officers and members of district security committees.
The Nepali Army informed that six helicopters have been kept on standby for relief and rescue operations. Inspector General of Police Chandra Kuber Khapung instructed police officers to stay prepared for possible disasters during the festival season. Armed Police Force chief Raju Aryal also said his force was fully mobilised.
Home Secretary Rameshwar Dangal directed district disaster management committees to shut down nighttime travel on highways if necessary, suspend trekking activities and relocate people from high-risk areas to safer locations.
The authority has warned of sudden flooding in rivers around Kathmandu Valley, Kavre, Sindhupalchok, Rasuwa, Makwanpur, Chitwan, Sankhuwasabha, Taplejung, Ilam, Jhapa, Morang, Bara, Parsa, Sarlahi, and Rautahat, urging all to take precautionary measures.
Authority Chief Executive Dinesh Bhatta asked all agencies to stay active as per the National Monsoon Preparedness and Response Action Plan 2025.
The meeting decided to keep the National Emergency Operations Centre fully functional round the clock and ensure that emergency warehouses are ready for immediate use, according to spokesperson Mahat. - The Kathmandu Post/ANN
