Solidarity In Disaster Management

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli's government, formed after an alliance with the Nepali Congress, the largest party in the parliament, marked its 100th day in office on October 22—often referred to as the 'honeymoon period.' Oli was appointed by President Ramchandra Paudel under Article 76(2) of the Constitution on July 14, 2024, and took his oath of office on July 15. This political shift occurred after a strategic alliance was forged between the NC and UML to oust the Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda-led government. The two parties signed a seven-point agreement, which stipulates that the heads of two parties lead the government on a rotation basis till the next elections scheduled for November-December 2027.

In his fourth tenure as the head of executive, Oli emphasised the significance of the seven-point pact during his vote of confidence in the House of Representatives on July 21. 

He described it as a joint effort by the two largest political parties to address the country's urgent issues. Although the NC and UML hold differing ideologies, Oli highlighted that their collaboration in the past had set the nation on a new course. The agreement, made public on July 1, outlined shared objectives, including safeguarding national interests, combating corruption, improving governance, accelerating development, and ensuring political stability as per public expectations.

Oli’s administration, which is set to govern for a two-year term as stipulated in the seven-point agreement, has already faced significant challenges. Its major achievement has been in the area of disaster management. Following three days of continuous heavy rainfall from September 26 to 28, which triggered devastating floods and landslides, resulting in nearly 250 deaths and many more missing, the government responded swiftly. Oli's government has received widespread appreciation for its quick and decisive actions in handling the crisis.

Prompt response

The torrential rains caused widespread destruction across Nepal, with severe flooding and landslides, causing billions of rupees in damage, particularly to infrastructure in the hydropower and agricultural sectors. Hundreds of families were left homeless as many houses were either swept away or severely damaged. In the face of this tragedy, the government swung into action to coordinate relief and rescue operations, providing immediate assistance to those affected. The administration worked tirelessly to ensure that emergency resources reached the hardest-hit areas, demonstrating a level of preparedness and responsiveness.

Recognising the immense need for rehabilitation and recovery, the government allocated Rs. 430 million to support local levels in rebuilding their communities. This decision was made during a cabinet meeting on October 18, following recommendations from the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA) executive committee meeting. The government had already declared 71 local levels in 21 districts as disaster-hit zones.

The affected districts were categorised into three groups: severely affected, and generally affected. Based on this classification, local levels in severely affected districts will receive up to Rs. 10 million in grants, while those in affected districts will receive Rs. 7.5 million, and generally affected local bodies will receive Rs. 5 million. This financial support is aimed at facilitating the reconstruction of damaged homes and infrastructure, with funds being distributed through local levels as identified by the NDRRMA.

Preliminary reports from the NDRRMA estimate that the agriculture sector alone suffered nearly Rs. 6 billion in losses due to the recent monsoon disaster. Additionally, according to the Department of Roads, the monsoon triggered 817 instances of road and highway blockages due to floods and landslides. 

While five highways remain obstructed in both directions, 366 have been fully restored, and 446 are operating with partial access. The government is actively working to restore full operations on all affected roads as quickly as possible.

As of October 17, Rs. 1.81 billion has been deposited in the account of the Prime Minister's Disaster Relief Fund. Various offices, organisations, and individuals donated money in response to the recent monsoon disaster. 

Additionally, the government announced a relief package for families who lost loved ones, ensuring they receive the financial support they desperately need during these difficult times. This prompt decision to release funds for reconstruction and relief underscores the government's commitment to providing timely assistance to its citizens and rebuilding stronger, more resilient communities.

At the 14th National Council meeting of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA) on October 18, Prime Minister Oli proposed holding another international summit with donor partners and countries to expedite the reconstruction of the thousands of homes damaged by the disaster. The meeting also established deadlines for the commencement of all reconstruction and recovery work related to damaged infrastructure. As per the decisions, temporary housing construction must be completed by mid-November 2024, essential services must be operational within 15 days, and a detailed damage assessment (DDA) must be conducted immediately within 15 days to accelerate the reconstruction of public infrastructure and private homes.

Vision for development 

Beyond disaster management, Prime Minister Oli's first 100 days in office have been characterised by a clear vision for economic development and stability. His administration has outlined a roadmap aimed at revitalising key sectors of the economy, such as infrastructure, hydropower, and agriculture—sectors that were severely impacted by the monsoon disaster. 

By prioritising these areas, the government seeks not only to rebuild what was lost but also to accelerate growth and establish a more robust foundation for future development.

The 100-day has tested his leadership, presenting significant challenges that demanded decisive action. His administration’s rapid response to the monsoon disaster and strategic allocation of funds for relief and reconstruction have set a tone of dedication and resilience. As the honeymoon period comes to an end, there is a cautious optimism that under Oli’s leadership, Nepal will continue on a path of recovery, growth, and sustainable development.

(The author is a journalist at The Rising Nepal.)