President Bidya Devi Bhandari has urged the government to give special attention to search and rescue of those affected by floods, landslides and inundation, and to post-disaster relief, rehabilitation and reconstruction work. She has also called for special focus on preparedness for risk reduction.
In this connection, the President inquired with the head of the home ministry, national disaster risk reduction and management authority and heads of security agencies about the damage caused by rain-triggered floods, landslides and inundation along with the beginning of the monsoon in various parts of the country and government's disaster response initiatives.
In the meeting held on Friday evening, President Bhandari stressed on paying attention to the natural hazards while constructing physical structures for development. She also suggested that the Home Ministry work in coordination with other ministries and agencies in this regard. It is the primary duty of the government to protect the life and property of its citizens during a disaster, and ensure effective rescue and relief programmes for those affected by it, she said.
The President also lauded the efforts of the security persons involved in search and rescue of survivors.
On the occasion, Home Minister KhagarajAdhikari, Home Secretary MaheswarNeupane and the Executive Chief of the Authority Anil Pokharel apprised the President of the monsoon-induced disaster and the physical and human casualty, as well as the rescue and relief efforts of the government.
