KATHMANDU: Pushpa Kamal Dahal, Chairman Maoist Center, has criticized the government for its inadequate response to the recent floods and landslides, despite prior weather forecasts.
He emphasized that the state apparatus did not take immediate action for rescue operations.
Dahal called for a thorough investigation into the failures that led to the lack of prompt rescue efforts, even in the federal capital, stressing that such situations must not recur in the future.
After reviewing a report prepared by the Natural Disaster and Disaster Management Department of the Maoist Center—developed by a team of experts following an on-site assessment of the affected areas—Dahal urged the government to adopt a more organized approach moving forward.
He stated that the government failed to protect citizens during the floods that occurred last Friday and Saturday.
Dahal pointed out that the administration is now struggling to carry out the expected relief and rehabilitation efforts.
He further emphasized the need for the government to improve the efficiency of its various mechanisms.
He advocated for geological studies to be conducted prior to any settlement development or infrastructure projects, highlighting that unplanned settlements contribute to the risks of landslides and floods in hilly and urban areas.
Dahal reiterated his commitment to systematic settlement development and infrastructure planning since his first term as prime minister.
He stressed that to mitigate risks from natural disasters like floods, landslides, and earthquakes, infrastructure and settlements must be developed based on geological assessments.
He noted that the report prepared by experts under the party’s disaster management department will serve as a crucial resource for future initiatives.
Dahal announced plans to submit a memorandum to the government soon, aimed at promoting scientific development and disaster management strategies.
Surya Subedi Pathik, head of the disaster management department of the Maoist Center, revealed that the expert team visited flood and landslide-affected areas, producing a report that identifies key problems and potential solutions.
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