KATHMANDU: Minister for Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation Biraj Bhakta Shrestha and Home Minister Sudhan Gurung have directed officials to prepare for potential disasters following forecasts of extremely heavy rainfall between Sept. 25 and 27. The ministers visited the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology on Tuesday to assess the weather system and coordinate early warning measures.
Minister Shrestha emphasized that the government is prioritizing preparedness and early warning systems. He urged the agriculture, tourism, and transport sectors to remain vigilant. ‘On behalf of the government, I request you to be well-informed while traveling,’ Shrestha said. ‘It is the festive season, so please gather information before traveling anywhere.’ He added that authorities have learned from previous incidents, such as the Bhotekoshi floods, and have prioritized the readiness of rescue personnel and equipment.
Home Minister Gurung confirmed that security agencies are on high alert. ‘We are planning everything from team mobilization in riverside areas to alerting citizens,’ he said. ‘We have taken a briefing on the situation and what preparations need to be made.’ He advised those currently trekking to move to safe locations and requested others to avoid trekking during this period.
Director General of the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology, Dr. Archana Shrestha, briefed the ministers on the weather forecast. The system is expected to bring heavy to very heavy rainfall to Gandaki, Lumbini, and the Terai region of Sudurpashchim Province. The ministers stressed the need for strong coordination between the federal, provincial, and local governments to manage potential risks effectively.
