KATHMANDU: Home Minister Rabi Lamichhane dismissed claims of delay in relief efforts for wildfire and fire victims during a discussion program at the Ministry of Home Affairs.

He emphasized the government’s commitment to timely distribution of relief, stating that necessary resources have been mobilized without delay.

Lamichhane stressed the importance of disaster preparedness, suggesting regular public awareness programs in schools and revising existing strategies based on past mistakes.

He also recommended enhancing the capacity of fire brigades, fire trucks, and burn wards in hospitals operated by security bodies.

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority reported 46 forest fire incidents, 43 other fire incidents, and one fatality due to fire across the country in the past 24 hours.