Kathmandu, June 3 - In anticipation of the monsoon season, the Government of Nepal has deployed over 17,000 security personnel to respond to potential natural disasters. This mobilization includes additional resources from the Nepal Army, which has also been placed on standby, according to officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs.
The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA) revealed these measures at a press conference held at Singha Durbar. Acknowledging Nepal's vulnerability to earthquakes, landslides, floods, fires, and lightning, the authority emphasized the need for an improved disaster response strategy to mitigate loss of life, damage to property, and destruction of infrastructure.
Resource Allocation and Challenges
Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak emphasized that the government has set up command centers at the federal, provincial, district, and local levels to enhance disaster management. However, the NDRRMA spokesman expressed concerns about a potential resource crunch, which could undermine disaster preparedness and response efforts.
This year, the Ministry of Home Affairs has allocated 10,865 personnel from the Nepal Police, 7,615 from the Armed Police Force, and 3,607 from the Nepal Army to assist in disaster management. Additional resources, such as helicopters and rescue equipment, have been pre-positioned to address emergency situations more effectively.
Proactive Measures for Monsoon Hazards
The Meteorological Department has forecast that the upcoming monsoon will bring heavy rainfall, which could trigger floods, landslides, and other hazards. The monsoon, expected to last from June 14 to September 23, often exacerbates Nepal's geological vulnerability due to its mountainous terrain.
To prepare for potential emergencies, provincial administrations are monitoring river systems, including the swollen Bagmati River in Lalitpur, which poses a significant flood risk. Coordination between government agencies and local communities has been prioritized to enhance early warning systems and evacuation plans.
Last Year’s Monsoon: A Stark Reminder
The 2024 monsoon was the heaviest in 77 years, resulting in catastrophic damage across the country. According to official data, Nepal experienced 8,118 disaster-related incidents during that period, which caused 231 deaths, left 419 people missing, and injured 2,689 individuals. Economic losses from the disasters amounted to over NPR 545 billion.
This year’s monsoon preparations aim to mitigate similar impacts, with lessons from past experiences shaping current strategies. Despite these efforts, officials have acknowledged the need for long-term investments in infrastructure, equipment, and training to reduce Nepal’s disaster vulnerability.
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