Kathmandu, Oct 29: Minister for Physical Infrastructure and Transport, Devendra Dahal, has stressed the need for additional research and studies on environmental and geological aspects for effective natural disaster management.
Speaking at a programme organized
here today by the Nepal Geological Society on the occasion of International Day
for Disaster Reduction, the Minister said that infrastructure development
lacking thorough geographical and environmental assessments has exacerbated
damage from disasters.
He asserted that recent flooding
and landslides caused by heavy rains on September 27-28 highlight the urgent
need for more geographical and environmental studies to mitigate disaster risks
and enhance preparedness for crises. Dahal also suggested reviewing the overall
development model to address these challenges.
According to the Minister, the
recent disasters had affected 39 highways at 811 points. He promised to
prioritize projects that would positively impact revenue collection, minimize
travel disruptions, and facilitate the transport of local products to
market.
Keshab Kumar Sharma, Secretary at
the Ministry, stated that Nepal is prone to landslides, flooding, and soil
erosion, stressing the necessity for comprehensive geographical studies during
the implementation of infrastructure projects, including roads, bridges, and
hydropower developments.
Anil Pokhrel, Executive Chief of
the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA), echoed
the need for cooperation among governmental bodies and stakeholders for
effective disaster preparedness and management.
Other participants including Churna
Bahadur Wali (Chair of the Nepal Geographical Society), and geological expert
Dr. Subodh Dahakal, reinforced the need for effective policies and programs
aimed at reducing disaster risks and improving management. They also emphasized
the need for collaboration among experts, the Nepali Army, Nepal Police, and
the Nepal Red Cross Society in these efforts.(RSS)