KATHMANDU: President Ramchandra Paudel has called upon the government, political parties, civil society, and all citizens to unite for the rescue, relief, and rehabilitation of those affected by the recent natural disaster. In an address to the nation on Monday, President Paudel expressed deep sorrow over the loss of life and property caused by the catastrophic landslide and flood that occurred on Aug. 26, 2026.
President Paudel paid tribute to those who lost their lives and wished for the speedy recovery of the injured. He commended the efforts of the Nepal Army, Nepal Police, Armed Police Force, health workers, local representatives, and volunteers involved in the rescue operations. He emphasized that despite difficult geographical conditions and damaged infrastructure, search and rescue operations must continue without interruption.
Expressing condolences to the families of foreign nationals who perished in the disaster, he stated that Nepal would coordinate with the respective governments and diplomatic missions. He also expressed gratitude to neighboring friendly nations and the international community for their rapid assistance in personnel, technical expertise, and medical support.
President Paudel urged the government to ensure access to food, clean water, shelter, and medical care for the survivors. He stressed the need for special attention to vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, pregnant women, and persons with disabilities. He also emphasized that the identification and management of the deceased must be handled with utmost sensitivity and scientific rigor.
Highlighting the risks posed by climate change, he called on the international community to take concrete steps to ensure climate justice for ecologically vulnerable nations like Nepal. ‘This is not a time for division. It is not a time to trade blame or get entangled in political disputes and confrontations,’ he said. ‘This is a time to demonstrate national unity and solidarity.’
He further suggested that as the nation moves toward reconstruction and rehabilitation, it should also reconsider its current development model.
