Biratnagar, May 13, 2025 – In a significant move towards decentralizing disaster management capabilities, Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak officially handed over the Provincial Emergency Warehouse in Biratnagar to the Koshi Provincial Government. The handover ceremony, held today, marked a milestone in strengthening provincial autonomy and disaster preparedness.
The facility was transferred to Koshi Province Chief Minister Hikmat Karki in a formal event. Speaking on the occasion, Home Minister Lekhak emphasized the necessity of emergency warehouses at both provincial and local levels. He highlighted the handover as a concrete example of federalism in action, enhancing the capacity of provincial governments to address disasters independently.
Chief Minister Karki expressed his gratitude to the federal government, acknowledging that this transfer will significantly ease disaster risk management in the region. "This handover strengthens our ability to respond swiftly and effectively to emergencies, ensuring the safety and well-being of our citizens," he remarked.
The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority's Executive Chief, Er. Dinesh Bhatt, revealed that similar warehouses in Koshi and three other provinces have already been transferred, with plans underway to complete the process in remaining provinces.
These emergency warehouses are equipped to store and package critical materials required for rescue operations and relief distribution during disasters. Their strategic presence aims to reduce response times and enhance preparedness at the grassroots level.
The handover underscores the importance of a collaborative approach to disaster management, aligning with Nepal's federal governance structure to empower provinces in mitigating risks and managing emergencies efficiently.
As climate change intensifies disaster risks, such initiatives are vital for building resilient communities and ensuring sustainable development across the nation.
