KATHMANDU: The government has said all preparations for monsoon response and disaster management have been completed, with security agencies already deployed in high-risk areas across the country.
Speaking after a meeting of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority at Singha Durbar on Thursday, Home Minister Sudan Gurung said the government has finalized monsoon preparedness measures and stationed security personnel in vulnerable locations.
He said concerned agencies have been directed to respond to disasters more effectively than in previous years and added that helicopters would be mobilized if necessary to ensure public safety and emergency response.
The minister also stated that arrangements have been made to ensure that roads blocked by floods, landslides, or other monsoon-related incidents can be reopened promptly.
Gurung further said security agency chiefs have been instructed to remain fully committed to public service and take strict action against any wrongdoing without granting impunity.
Executive Chief of the authority Pradeep Kumar Koirala said the meeting reviewed monsoon preparedness plans and response mechanisms.
According to Koirala, forecasts suggest overall rainfall this year may be below average, but intense rainfall is likely to occur in concentrated locations, prompting authorities to tailor preparedness efforts accordingly.
He added that the Home Minister has directed all relevant bodies to remain on high alert and maintain readiness to ensure an effective disaster response.
Under the national monsoon preparedness and response action plan prepared by the authority, an estimated 51,868 households, comprising around 226,661 people, could be affected by monsoon-induced disasters across the country this year.
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