KATHMANDU: Minister for Energy, Water Resources, and Irrigation Deepak Khadka stated that the government is actively working to enhance its forecasting and early warning systems with the aid of the latest technologies.
Speaking at an event organized by the Water and Energy Commission Secretariat on the occasion of World Meteorological Day, Minister Khadka emphasized the government’s commitment to improving early warning systems to protect people from disaster risks.
He highlighted the success of the current early warning system in safeguarding lives and property from floods and announced plans to expand the use of IT, radar systems, and satellite technology to improve rain and weather forecasting.
Minister Khadka further stated that protecting glaciers—critical sources for Nepal’s hydropower, irrigation, and drinking water supply—is a top priority for the government.
He assured that efforts to strengthen early warning systems and implement risk reduction measures to minimize the impact of climate change are ongoing.
“If we don’t start preparing now for the risks that may arise in the future, Nepal could face a serious water security crisis. Hence, we are collaborating with the international community to preserve glaciers and mitigate the effects of climate change,” he said.
With support from the Green Climate Fund, the government plans to install risk reduction and early warning systems at four additional glaciers, including the Lower Barun Glacier in Sankhuwasabha, Lumding and Hongu Glaciers in Solukhumbu, and Thulagi Glacier in Manang district.
Minister Khadka also announced that the government will implement an impact-based forecasting system across all provinces and river basins in the future.
The Energy Minister shared that the Hydrology and Meteorology Policy, 2081, has been formulated and is already in effect under the leadership of his ministry. He also committed to preparing next year’s budget with a focus on addressing disaster-induced risks.
Secretary of the Ministry of Energy, Water Resources, and Irrigation, Sarita Dawadi, mentioned that the services of the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology will be further developed and expanded.
Secretary of the Water and Energy Commission Secretariat, Madhu Prasad Bhetwal, added that the government is advancing various programs in hydrology, meteorological services, climate adaptation, and glacier conservation in collaboration with different agencies.
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