Agencies Discuss Preparedness As Monsoon Disasters Loom

The Ministry of Home Affairs and its agencies have started preparing to manage the risks that may come with the monsoon season.

Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak said that both the government and non-government sectors need to work together to reduce disaster risks and be ready in advance. He has also given necessary instructions to the agencies under the ministry.

Following this, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA) has been speeding up discussions to prepare a monsoon response plan and its implementation. The authority has also talked with private groups like the Rafting Association and Mountaineering Association.

Dinesh Bhatt, executive chief of NDRRMA, said they have discussed rescue plans for mountain areas and ways to prevent human losses from floods in the Terai and Madhesh regions.

He added that both private organizations have promised to help. Citing weather forecasts, Bhatt said this year’s monsoon is likely to bring more rain than usual, so it is very important to be well-prepared.

In the meeting held yesterday, the Home Minister, chiefs and representatives of the three security agencies responsible for disaster management, the Department of Roads and representatives from the World Food Program also took part.