Nepal monsoon disaster response: The too-little-too-late tale to repeat this year also
By Binod Ghimire and Sudarshan Aryal
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The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology has already stated that the monsoon has already entered Nepal for this year. Indira Kandel from the department tells Onlinekhabar that it is likely that Nepal would be getting more rainfall this time than in previous years.
But, the government has not taken any steps to save lives, warn experts. Especially, preparation is much needed in areas like Baglung and Sindhupalchowk, which the government has listed as risk zones.
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“Technical expertise is only available in Kathmandu. When they arrive after a landslide or a flood, it’s already too late. If they were stationed in Barabise, it would be very helpful,” says Pokharel.
A committee formed to identify vulnerable zones had advised that some settlements in Jugal, Bhotekoshi and Helambu rural municipalities be relocated. There were a total of eight settlements that needed to be relocated.
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