KATHMANDU: The government has decided that vehicles will be allowed to operate in areas affected by monsoon-related disasters only after authorities assess the prevailing risk, amid growing concerns over floods, landslides and inundation.
The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA) has intensified its preparedness after the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology forecast heavy to very heavy rainfall in 21 districts across the country.
Acting Chief Executive Officer Pradeep Kumar Koirala said the decision was taken to ensure public safety, particularly on road sections vulnerable to landslides and flooding.
“Considering the prevailing risk, we had requested that vehicles not be operated in districts prone to landslides,” Koirala said. “Today as well, vehicle movement will be permitted only after assessing the actual weather and road conditions.”
Koirala said the Authority is maintaining close coordination with security agencies, local administrations and the Department of Roads. Vehicle movement on highways and other roads will be allowed only after officials confirm that conditions are safe.
The NDRRMA has urged the public to follow official weather and road advisories before travelling, avoid unnecessary journeys on high-risk road sections, and comply with instructions issued by local administrations and security agencies.
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