KATHMANDU: The Bagmati Province Government’s Ministry of Internal Affairs, Law and Cooperatives has urged citizens to remain on high alert as heavy rain is likely in various parts of the province from September 22 to 27.
The Ministry issued a public notice today, urging citizens to take necessary precautions and make preparations in view of the potential risks.
According to the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology, various parts of Bagmati Province may experience heavy rain accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning and strong winds during the period.
The Ministry said heavy rainfall could cause rivers and streams to swell, increasing the risk of flash floods, landslides and inundation. Road and air transportation may also be affected by the rainfall. The ministry has therefore advised people to check road and weather conditions before travelling.
People living along river and stream banks, in landslide-prone areas, on steep slopes and in areas vulnerable to inundation have been urged to take extra precautions.
In the event of signs of danger, residents should move to the nearest safe location in time and coordinate with local authorities and security agencies.
The Ministry has also advised people to avoid long-distance and nighttime travel unless absolutely necessary. It has urged the public to pay special attention to the safety of children, senior citizens, persons with disabilities, pregnant women and people with illnesses.
Residents have been asked to keep livestock, food, medicines, important documents and other essential items in safe places.
Provincial government agencies, local governments, security agencies, volunteers and other stakeholders have been instructed to remain alert and make necessary preparations. They have also been asked to prepare for the timely relocation of at-risk residents to safer locations if required.
The Ministry has urged the public to regularly check official weather forecasts, warnings and alerts issued by the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology, the federal and provincial governments, local authorities and security agencies, and to follow instructions issued by the relevant authorities.
For information and assistance related to rainfall and floods, the Ministry has provided the following emergency contact numbers: 1155, Disaster Assistance 1234, Nepal Police 100, Armed Police Force, Nepal 1114, and the ministry’s disaster contact person at 9769761214.
The Ministry has also urged residents to rely only on official sources of information and not to spread or believe rumors.
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