National unity must for nation's welfare: PM Oli

Kathmandu, April 25: Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has pointed out the need of national unity for the welfare of the nation like post Gorkha earthquake reconstruction task.     

In the 10th memorial day of devastating Gorkha Earthquake organized by National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority at Dharahara premises today, Prime Minister Oli pointed out the need of mandatory national unity on the issue of good governance and development.     

He opined, "The emotion of national unity of moving together in constitution making after Gorkha earthquake was developed from all sides. Such type of unity should be seen among us on the matter of national welfare."     

Sharing competition was natural in democracy, the Prime Minister laid emphasis on the need of moving ahead through healthy competition.     

"Criticism is welcomed in democracy. But is should not divide the Nepali society", he argued. Recalling the aftershocks after Gorkha Earthquake has created panic among all, PM Oli mentioned that such panic lasted for months.     

He added that national unity, support and cooperation of international community was highly evaluated, stressing the need of continuity of such type of support and cooperation in coming days.     

"Every person should pay attention how to make their houses safe as the economic condition of our nation, budget and capacity will not be enough no matter we talk about the reconstruction of earthquake-resilient physical infrastructures after Gorkha Earthquake", he said, adding the support provided by friends in reconstruction, relief and rescue was memorable and unforgettable.     

On the occasion, Prime Minister Oli paid tribute to those who lost their lives in earthquake as well as wished a speedy recovery to the injured ones.     

Similarly, Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak said the government has forwarded necessary activities and preparation in order to face possible disaster.     

He also expressed commitment for the preparation of activities to be carried out in disaster sector and reduction of possible risk, urging not to invite disaster destroying nature.     

"Individual physical property as well as government's every physical structures should be of high quality and quake-resilient", added Home Minister Lekhak, urging collaboration among all for disaster-response.     

Likewise, Executive Chief of the Authority, Dinesh Prasad Bhatta, shared that 8770 people were killed in 7.8 magnitude on the Richter scale Gorkha Earthquake occurred on Baishakh 12, 2072 BS as well as 22,300 people were injured.     

A total of Rs 233 billion was invested for the post-earthquake reconstruction. One minute's silence was observed on the occasion.     

Deputy Prime Minister and Urban Development Minister Prakash Man Singh, ministers, high-ranking officials of the government and chief and representatives of diplomatic missions in Nepal were present on the occasion. (RSS)