KATHMANDU: Two associations representing Nepal’s local governments have jointly submitted an eight-point appeal to the federal government, calling for greater local leadership and improved coordination in managing relief efforts following the devastating floods in Rasuwa.
The National Association of Rural Municipalities in Nepal, chaired by Laxmi Devi Pandey, and the Municipal Association of Nepal, led by Bhim Prasad Dhungana, issued the appeal on Tuesday following the floods in the Bhote Koshi region on August 26.
Expressing concern over the loss of lives and property, the associations criticized what they described as excessive centralization of disaster-response resources and weak coordination among the three tiers of government. They also objected to federal officials blaming local governments during disasters.
Among their key demands are the deployment of international-level technology and expertise to search for missing people, and greater authority for local disaster management committees to lead relief distribution.
They have also called for the immediate restoration of blocked roads and bridges, as well as water and electricity services based on local needs. The associations urged the government to channel donor assistance directly into local disaster-management funds and ensure local governments play a leading role in post-disaster damage and needs assessments.
They further called for local governments to support one another with technical personnel and food supplies, emphasizing coordinated action among federal, provincial and local authorities rather than mutual blame.
