Army, local govts start distributing firewood

By Our Correspondent,Jamunah (Banke),Jan,1: Relief materials are being distributed across Banke as the Nepal Army and local governments step up efforts to protect people from the biting mid-winter cold. The absence of sunshine for days has intensified the cold, hitting poor families and daily wage labourers the hardest.

To protect the public from the worsening cold, the Nepal Army’s Bajradal Battalion, Ranjha, has stepped up its efforts. The battalion has distributed firewood for people to warm themselves at public places in Khajura, Puraina, Phultekrā and Alanagar, among other locations. 

Battalion Commander, Lieutenant Colonel Ramchandra Shrestha, said the firewood was provided as part of the Army’s humanitarian service to support those affected by the cold.

Alongside the Army, local governments have also intensified firewood distribution. Of the 64 stacks of firewood available for use at public places, Narainapur has already distributed 10 stacks, while Baijanath and Rapti Sonari have distributed two stacks each. Nepalgunj Sub-Metropolitan City has also begun distributing firewood.

In addition, several municipalities have started distributing blankets to poor and vulnerable families. So far, 1,080 blankets have been distributed across the district. Of these, Janaki Rural Municipality distributed the highest number at 800 blankets, followed by Rapti Sonari with 180, and Kohalpur and Khajura with 50 blankets each.

Baijanath Rural Municipality has also initiated its blanket distribution process, while a further 1,780 blankets remain in stock across the district.

The Banke District Disaster Management Committee said it is updating and implementing its cold wave preparedness and response plan accordingly. 

According to the committee’s projection, around 176,000 people from about 36,000 households in Banke could be affected by cold and cold wave conditions this year.

As the risk from the cold continues to rise, the local administration has also been issuing public advisories. People have been urged to go outside only when necessary, wear warm clothing and consume hot, liquid foods in sufficient quantities.