KATHMANDU: The 19th meeting of the Disaster Risk Reduction Council has decided to continue search and rescue operations for those missing in recent natural disasters. The meeting directed the Ministry of Home Affairs and all security agencies to mobilize accordingly.
The council also decided to coordinate with the Ministry of Physical Infrastructure and Transport, provincial governments, and local levels to reopen obstructed roads and manage disrupted transportation services.
Authorities concerned have been instructed to restore drinking water, electricity, and communication services in affected areas at the earliest. To ensure fair relief distribution, the meeting agreed to implement a unified distribution system through local governments.
The Ministry of Home Affairs will facilitate relief assistance for the families of the deceased and missing as per existing laws, while the Ministry of Health and Population will ensure free treatment for the injured.
Considering the potential risk of disease outbreaks, the Ministry of Water Supply will prepare for safe water delivery, and the Ministry of Health will conduct awareness campaigns, health camps, and psychosocial support programs.
Local governments will help identify displaced families for temporary housing construction, and the first installment of housing grants will be released immediately under the 2081 standards.
The meeting also instructed the Ministry of Health to prioritize sanitation, medicine, and healthcare services, while urging the Ministry of Education to make school premises available for temporary shelter.
Expressing gratitude to security agencies and volunteer organizations for their active roles in rescue and relief efforts, the council directed the Mental Health Division under the Health Ministry to coordinate with local governments for psychological support programs.
The meeting reviewed the damage, rescue, and rehabilitation status caused by the heavy rainfall.
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