HM Gurung: Full-scale monsoon disaster preparedness underway

KATHMANDU: Home Minister Sudhan Gurung has said that the government is placing high priority on monsoon-related disaster management, with extensive preparations already underway.

Speaking to journalists after attending a monsoon preparedness and response meeting organized by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA), Gurung assured that all available resources, including helicopters and security agencies, will be mobilized to ensure citizen safety during floods, landslides, and other natural disasters.

He stated that security agencies have already been deployed and instructed to focus on rescue operations rather than formal inspections, emphasizing swift and effective response during emergencies.

According to him, a rapid-response mechanism has been established to ensure immediate action in crisis situations.

The minister also highlighted coordination with the Ministry of Physical Infrastructure and Transport to address potential road blockages along major highways, including the East–West Highway, during the monsoon season.

He noted that an advanced digital system has been developed to track the availability of equipment such as excavators and deploy them quickly to clear blocked roads, reducing the risk of travelers being stranded for long periods.

Gurung said the government is learning from past disasters and aims to improve effectiveness by building on previous efforts while correcting weaknesses.

He added that priority will also be given to strengthening citizen-friendly policing, improving service delivery, and ensuring good governance.

He further stressed that performance-based evaluation and promotion within security agencies will be implemented, ending the practice of promotions influenced by political pressure or access.

According to him, the Ministry of Home Affairs will continue to focus on citizen safety, disaster response, and efficient public service delivery.