Monsoon-related disasters likely to affect over 226,000 people this year

KATHMANDU: The Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Executive Committee has approved the Monsoon Preparedness and Response National Action Plan, 2083, prepared for this year.

The decision was taken during a meeting of the Executive Committee held on Thursday under the chairmanship of Minister for Infrastructure Development Sunil Lamsal. According to the national action plan, an estimated 226,661 people from around 51,868 households across the country are expected to be affected by monsoon-related disasters this year.

The first section of the action plan includes an analysis of monsoon-related disaster risks and impact assessments, while the second section outlines the responsibilities of concerned agencies involved in monsoon preparedness and response efforts.

Similarly, the third section contains preparedness and response action plans for thematic sectors and related agencies. The fourth section includes details of contact persons as well as essential search, rescue, and relief materials required during monsoon emergencies.

The meeting also approved, with amendments, the Criteria for the Formation and Mobilization of Search and Rescue Teams, 2083 BS. The criteria are expected to help institutions automatically mobilize mechanisms to immediately carry out primary rescue and response activities following disasters.

Likewise, the Executive Committee endorsed the Procedure for Conducting Artificial Incident Exercises, 2083. The procedure aims to ensure clarity and uniformity in mock disaster exercises to strengthen preparedness and improve the effectiveness of search and rescue operations.

In addition, the meeting approved the National Framework for Forecast-Based Pre-Action, 2083, with amendments. The framework includes provisions for taking preventive measures before disasters occur based on forecasts, with active participation from potentially affected communities to minimize impacts.

The meeting also revised several sections and sub-sections of the Disaster-Affected Private Housing Strengthening, Reconstruction, and Rehabilitation Grant Procedure, 2081.

Furthermore, the committee decided that the Ministry of Urban Development, in coordination with the Ministry of Federal Affairs and General Administration, will manage 21 technical personnel at the District Earthquake Reconstruction and Rehabilitation Project Implementation Unit Office.