Acting PM stresses on precaution and vigilance

Kathmandu, Aug 5: Acting Prime Minister Prakash Man Singh has directed all government bodies to adopt necessary precautions considering the risks of monsoon-induced disaster.

A meeting held at the Urban Development Ministry today in presence of Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak, Defense Minister Manbir Rai, Chief Secretary Eaknarayan Aryal, Executive Chief of National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority, Dinesh Bhatta,  the Acting Prime Minister enquired about the weather of different places of the country and possible risks.

On the occasion, he asked the bodies concerned to remain prepared, to prevent damages if any incident occurs, to stay on 'high-alert' for search and rescue.   

Acting Prime Minister Singh also directed to disseminate SMS alert and make early warning system effective through local media and security bodies in risk-prone areas. 

Similarly, Executive Chief Bhatta briefed the meeting that the monsoon system remains active today in Dang, Banke and Bardiya of Lumbini Province and there is possibility that Bardiya might be inundated within four-five hours as Babai river and Rapti river have crossed danger level following heavy rainfall. 

Likewise, the Acting Prime Minister also enquired about drought condition seen in Madhes Province. 

In response, Bhatta shared that light rainfall has been taking place in Madhes and 80 per cent paddy plantation has been completed.  He further informed the meeting that there is possibility of heavy rainfall in Kailali and Kanchanpur tonight. 

Similarly, Home Minister Lekhak mentioned that a directive has been issued for Chief District Officers, Chiefs of District-based security bodies, chief administrative officers of local levels not to leave their workplace unless in an emergency.  (RSS)