KATHMANDU: Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has defended his government’s response to the devastating floods in the Kathmandu Valley, stressing that authorities are doing their utmost in rescue and relief operations.
Speaking to the media on Monday, shortly after his return from the 79th United Nations General Assembly in New York, the Oli addressed criticisms of the government’s handling of the disaster.
“I returned and heard that the government’s role during the calamity has been questioned,” Oli said, “Protesting for the sake of protesting will not help. The government has tried its best. The army and police have been deployed, and rescue and relief efforts are ongoing. We could not have prevented the flood.”
The recent flooding has caused widespread damage across the country, including Kathmandu Valley, with landslides further complicating the situation.
Despite advance warnings from Nepal’s Meteorological Department, Oli stated that while floods and landslides can be predicted, it is impossible to determine the exact locations where damage will occur.
Speaking at a press conference, Oli said that, even during his absence, he was in constant communication with government agencies overseeing relief efforts.
“I was regularly updated on the situation and issued instructions to relevant authorities,” he said, “At such a sensitive time, it is crucial for all stakeholders to work together.”
The Prime Minister also assured the public that his return would lead to an accelerated government response. “Now that I am back, the government’s role will be more effective. We are committed to speeding up relief and rescue operations,” he said.
Floods and landslides on Friday and Saturday claimed 192 lives, with 30 people still reported missing.
Comment