650 houses in Gaurigunj at high risk of flood

By Bishnu Prasad Pokhrel,Damak, July 9: Around 650 houses in Gaurigunj Rural Municipality of Jhapa district are at risk of flood, data shows.

The disaster management committee of the rural municipality performed a survey and presented a report showing the possible risks of flood or other monsoon-induced disasters.

“A detailed survey by the rural municipality with support from Nepal Red Cross showed that around 650 houses were at high risk from flood,” said Phulwati Rajbanshi, chairperson of Gaurigunj.

She also informed that the rural municipality had initiated necessary preventive measures alongside managed rescue and relief materials for unprecedented incidents as the monsoon has already started.

Data shows that the majority of houses of only two wards were at extreme risk. “More than 400 houses in Tunubasti, Chauri, Tappu, Hokalwari, Hemadangi and Bhakurmari villages in wards 1 and 2 are at extreme risk,” said Rajbanshi.

Gaurigunj have been suffering damages from the Kamal Baniyani River and Ratuwa River. 

“Life jackets, tubes, ropes, handle bags, plastic helmets, rubber boats, tarpaulins and boots alongside food for disaster-hit victims are being managed,” said Rajbanshi.

Meanwhile, the newly elected Chief Minister (CM) of Koshi Province Uddhav Thapa visited the Baijeshwornath Koteshwor Shivalaya Dham, a religious site in Gaurigunj, Jhapa, Friday night.

The Dham is said to be one of the oldest religious sites of Eastern Nepal. He was welcomed by Chairperson Rajbanshi, other local representatives and temple officials.