Disaster Council Directs High Alert Measures Amid Heavy Rainfall

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council has instructed all concerned authorities to remain on high alert and implement early warning measures amid increasing monsoon-related risks across Nepal.

A meeting held on Sunday at the Ministry of Urban Development, chaired by Acting Prime Minister Prakash Man Singh, reviewed the recent heavy rainfall and potential threats of floods and landslides. The Council decided to enhance coordination, improve early warning systems, and prepare for immediate response in disaster-prone areas.

Key decisions include restrictions on night time vehicle movement in high-risk areas, dissemination of weather alerts through local FM stations and social media, and arrangements for quick reporting and rescue operations in affected regions.

Acting PM Singh emphasized that no lapses should occur in preparedness and directed all agencies to stay fully alert. He stated that timely dissemination of early warnings can significantly reduce disaster-related damage.

Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak informed the meeting that all three security forces are on standby, with military and private helicopters ready for deployment if needed. He also stated that Chief District Officers and police at final check posts would be held accountable for any incidents resulting from vehicle movement during high-risk periods.

Chief Secretary Ek Narayan Aryal said that weather forecasts have so far been reliable and that authorities have been placed on alert accordingly.

The Home Ministry, Defense Ministry, National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority, and Department of Roads also provided updates on their respective preparedness efforts.