MPs raise issues of public concern in Zero Hour

By A Staff Reporter

Kathmandu, Apr. 8: Lawmakers on Tuesday used the Zero Hour to urge the government to take immediate action against the recurring threat of monsoon flooding, while raising a wide spectrum of pressing public concerns. 

The session was dominated by calls for enhanced disaster preparedness, policy reform and swift intervention across critical sectors, including agriculture, health, education and social welfare.

MP Ashok Kumar Chaudhary drew the government’s attention to the recurring threat of monsoon flooding in Sunsari. He warned that annual inundation of local rivers continues to cause significant loss of life and property, leaving residents in a constant state of fear. Stressing the need for long-term solutions, he called for scientific studies and sustainable flood control measures ahead of the approaching monsoon season.

Likewise, Karishma Katharia urged the government to fix a minimum support price for wheat before the next parliamentary meeting, arguing that farmers have long been neglected. She also called for state mechanisms to ensure the procurement of produce, highlighting the vulnerability of farmers to market uncertainties. Echoing similar concerns, Khushbu Oli questioned the government’s preparedness to ensure the timely supply of fertilisers, warning that shortages or price hikes, exacerbated by geopolitical tensions in West Asia, could severely impact agricultural production and food security.

Lawmaker Ganesh Karki highlighted the persistence of unresolved land ownership disputes, noting that some families have waited generations for legal recognition of their property. He urged the government to prioritise land reform as a matter of urgency.

Ojaswi Sherchan said that the national health insurance programme is under significant financial strain, with hospitals yet to receive substantial reimbursements. She cautioned that the sustainability of the scheme is at risk unless immediate policy reforms and stronger coordination between government agencies are ensured.

Lawmakers also called for greater attention to mental health. Krantishikha Dhital highlighted the psychosocial impact on families affected by past political movements, injured individuals and security personnel. She argued that mental health issues remain largely overlooked and called for expanded counselling services and policy-level recognition of the problem.

Environmental concerns were raised by Ashika Tamang, who criticised the unregulated extraction of riverbed materials, particularly in rivers such as the Trishuli. She warned that such activities are damaging ecological balance and affecting local communities, urging the government to adopt scientific and sustainable management practices.

Other lawmakers drew attention to a range of additional issues, including the growing number of road accidents, crop damage caused by wildlife in hilly regions, youth drug addiction, and restrictions imposed in parts of Manang and Mustang, which they argued may infringe upon fundamental rights.

The session also saw the tabling of several legislative proposals, including bills related to tourism, forensic science and film regulation. The next meeting of the HoR is scheduled for 1 PM Wednesday.