Kathmandu, November 19, 2025
The Government of Nepal has urged stronger national and community-level collaboration to manage the growing risks posed by cold waves and snowfall, which disproportionately affect vulnerable populations during winter.
At a disaster dialogue program organized by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA), Home Minister Om Prakash Aryal stressed that cold waves and winter snowfall continue to threaten elderly people, children, pregnant and postpartum women, persons with disabilities, the poor and marginalized communities, and individuals living in temporary shelters.
“The government alone cannot manage the challenges posed by cold waves and snowfall. Strong partnerships with NGOs, UN agencies, development partners, civil society, media, local communities and the private sector are essential,” Minister Aryal stated.
Health Services on High Alert
Noting that extreme cold has direct impacts on public health, the Minister instructed authorities to keep local health services, district hospitals, and mobile health teams ready with essential medical supplies and adequate human resources. Local governments have also been requested to prepare safe shelters in public buildings and stock warm clothing and relief materials in advance.
The Minister further warned that the rise in domestic tourism-though positive-has also led to incidents where trekkers undertake high-altitude journeys without adequate preparation, increasing rescue challenges during winter.
Action Plan Based on Local Risk Profiles
NDRRMA Executive Chief Engineer Dinesh Bhatt reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to implementing a nationwide action plan through a “whole-of-government” and “whole-of-society” approach. He emphasized early identification of high-risk areas, pre-setting communication channels for swift information dissemination, and stockpiling relief materials before cold conditions intensify. Bhatt also underscored the need for targeted awareness campaigns.
“There are widespread misconceptions among the public about how to stay safe during cold waves and snowfall. Awareness and preparedness are key to reducing losses,” he said.
Insights from District-Level Authorities
Chief District Officers from all 77 districts joined the program virtually, sharing situational assessments and preparedness plans. Representatives from Mahottari, Manang, Solukhumbu, and Rautahat highlighted district-specific risks and ongoing response measures.
The technical components of the national Cold Wave and Snowfall Action Plan were presented by Under-Secretary Ram Bahadur KC.
Why It Matters
Nepal’s winter-related disasters have intensified in recent years, driven by climate variability, inadequate insulation in rural housing, and increasing human mobility to high-altitude regions. These events not only threaten lives but also disrupt health services, agriculture, tourism, and local livelihoods.
