KATHMANDU: The Nepali Army (NA) has begun implementing an extensive monsoon preparedness and disaster response plan aimed at minimizing damage from floods, landslides, and other monsoon-related disasters across the country.
According to the NA, this year’s preparedness strategy has been designed based on lessons learned from previous rescue and relief operations. The plan emphasizes close coordination with federal, provincial, and local governments, security agencies, non-governmental organizations, and local communities.
The army stated that personnel stationed in district-level battalions and regiments have been kept on standby for immediate deployment during emergencies.
Specialized search and rescue teams equipped with disaster response tools have also been mobilized across all provinces to ensure rapid and effective rescue operations during floods, landslides, and other natural disasters.
To support emergency response efforts in remote areas, helicopters and other aerial vehicles have been placed on standby. According to the Directorate of Public Relations and Information, helicopters have been stationed in Kathmandu, Surkhet, and Itahari for rescue and relief operations. Additional aircraft in Kathmandu are ready to be deployed across all seven provinces as required during the monsoon season.
The army emphasized that disaster management requires coordinated efforts among all stakeholders, including local communities and government agencies. Based on experiences from past monsoon disasters, preparedness measures have been strengthened through joint planning and coordination at the central, provincial, district, and community levels.
The army also said it plans to pre-position two aerial vehicles in suitable locations depending on weather forecasts.
To address possible highway obstructions caused by floods and landslides, Bailey bridges have been prepared for rapid deployment. One set each has been stationed in Gajuri, Bharatpur, and Jitpur. In addition, three fast mechanical bridges capable of quick transportation and installation have been stored at Gauchar Barracks in Kathmandu.
A rapid response rescue team has also been kept on standby at Gauchar Barracks for emergency deployment by air to disaster-hit areas.
The army said military hospitals across the country have prepared medical teams, medicines, and equipment to provide immediate treatment to injured and affected people during disasters. Relief materials, including food supplies and essential medicines, have also been stockpiled at various locations.
Heavy equipment and operators from the Military Engineering Department have been kept ready to support emergency tasks such as clearing landslides, reopening blocked roads, and repairing damaged infrastructure.
The army emphasized that disaster management requires coordinated efforts among all stakeholders, including local communities and government agencies. Based on experiences from past monsoon disasters, preparedness measures have been strengthened through joint planning and coordination at the central, provincial, district, and community levels.
According to Army spokesperson and Assistant Lieutenant Colonel Rajaram Basnet, the Nepal Army remains committed to reducing the loss of life and property through effective preparedness, joint exercises, and coordinated response mechanisms during the monsoon season.
Officials believe the enhanced preparations will strengthen Nepal’s disaster management system and improve public confidence as the country enters another challenging monsoon period.
Comment