KATHMANDU: Minister for Energy, Physical Infrastructure, Transport, and Urban Development Kulman Ghising has instructed authorities to remain on high alert for disaster response as heavy monsoon rains continue across the country.
Speaking to reporters after a discussion with stakeholders at Singha Durbar on Saturday, Minister Ghising said multiple regions were facing heavy to very heavy rainfall, making immediate preparedness crucial.
He noted that the Kathmandu Valley and surrounding areas were particularly at risk from Saturday night through Sunday morning, urging residents along riverbanks to avoid staying in vulnerable settlements. Disaster response teams have been mobilized accordingly.
The minister said arrangements were being made to minimize damage to physical infrastructure caused by floods and landslides, while directives had been issued to swiftly address any problems arising on national highways. Emergency response teams have also been placed on standby in flood-prone areas.
According to him, construction materials stored near rivers for ongoing projects were being shifted to safer locations.
Minister Ghising held consultations with officials from the Department of Roads, Department of Irrigation, and the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology as part of preparedness measures.
The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology has forecast heavy to very heavy rainfall in several parts of the country until Sunday morning, urging caution. It expects gradual improvement in weather conditions starting Monday.
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