Kathmandu, May 27 (H.S.): The Nepal government has completed all preparations to deal with natural disasters likely to occur during the monsoon season. More than 26,000 security personnel, including around 150 divers, have been kept on standby for search and rescue operations during disaster situations.

According to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority, these personnel from the three security agencies -Nepal Police, Armed Police Force, and the Nepali Army will be mobilized across the country based on requirements. Authority spokesperson Shanti Mahat stated that all necessary preparations to handle monsoon-related disasters have been completed, and the National Response Plan has already been prepared and implemented. She added that responsibilities have also been assigned to the concerned agencies.

She informed that for search and rescue operations during monsoon disasters, 7,524 personnel from the Nepali Army, 10,585 personnel from Nepal Police, and 8,110 personnel from the Armed Police Force, including 134 divers, have been kept in a state of readiness. These security personnel will be deployed for rescue and relief operations in all 77 districts of Nepal as required. In addition, extra manpower available in each district will also be mobilized if necessary.

The Authority has estimated that monsoon-induced disasters this year may affect a total of 226,661 people from 51,868 families across the country. The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology has forecast below-average rainfall and above-average temperatures during this year’s monsoon season. Based on these projections, the likely number of affected people has been assessed.

However, authorities have cautioned that even with below-average rainfall, certain specific regions may still experience severe impacts. Therefore, citizens have been urged to remain alert and take necessary precautions.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar