NUWAKOT: Minister for Information and Communications Dr Bikram Timilsina on Sunday inspected various areas affected by monsoon-related disasters including landslides.

After the inspection, he directed district authorities to make arrangements for prompt evacuation of the affected families to safer areas.

The Minister, who represents the Nuwakot constituency -1 in the House of Representatives, visited various parts under the Panchakanya, Shivapuri and Likhu rural municipalities that were affected by landslides triggered by incessant rainfall on August 20-21. He also held interactions with the affected citizens, drawing the attention of the district authorities concerned to an immediate need to proceed with their evacuations.

Acknowledging immediate disaster response efforts rescue, relief and management undertaken by the local government and local administration, the Minister said, “We will provide necessary facilitation from the federal government for the resettlement of people that are at risk and need to be shifted.”

During the Minister’s field inspection, Panchakanya Rural Municipality Chair Tej Bahadur Tamang briefed the Minister on the landslides that had occurred in several areas and their consequences.

The Minister also heard grievances of 11 families from Bokedanda of Panchakanya-4, whose homes are at risk following the incessant rains on August 20.

The affected residents called for resettlement. According to them, there is no situation for them to return homes. In response, Minister Dr Timilsina said that their concerns and needs would be addressed through cooperation among the three-tiers, following a technical assessment.

The Minister listened to affected citizens in Shivapuri-5, and Likhu-1, assuring them of the government’s support and facilitation in addressing their needs and concerns.