Lawmakers raise alarms on trafficking, gas, health, and admin gaps

KATHMANDU: In today’s meeting of the National Assembly, several members drew the government’s attention to pressing national issues ranging from human trafficking and natural gas utilization to environmental standards and public health concerns.

During zero hour, member Krishna Bahadur Rokaya demanded strict action against individuals involved in trafficking Nepali youths to Uttarakhand, India, under false promises of attractive employment.

He said some victims had been rescued and urged authorities to identify and punish those responsible.

Member Ghanshyam Rijal raised concern over 201 local levels still lacking Chief Administrative Officers, calling on the government to deploy them immediately for smooth functioning.

Member Rukmini Koirala emphasized the need to properly manage female community health volunteers, recognizing their vital contribution to maternal and child healthcare.

Renu Chand demanded an investigation into the fire at the CPN (Maoist Centre) party office in Baitadi, which destroyed important documents, urging the government to identify and prosecute those responsible.

Bishnu Kumari Sapkota welcomed the recent discovery of a large gas reserve in Dailekh and stressed the need to utilize it to promote employment. Similarly, Savitri Malla said the 112-billion-cubic-meter reserve could significantly contribute to Nepal’s economic prosperity if properly harnessed.

Member Bishnu Devi Pudasaini urged full enforcement of pollution control standards to improve environmental quality.

Bishnu Bahadur Bishwakarma expressed concern over the rising cases of COVID-19 and the spread of dengue in 73 districts, pressing for immediate and effective disease control measures.

Lastly, Krishna Prasad Adhikari called for swift repair of the flood-damaged Daunne road section in Nawalparasi and requested early preparedness for potential disasters during this year’s monsoon.

The lawmakers’ collective concerns highlight a range of unresolved national issues that demand urgent government attention.