Disaster response: well-done!

The way the Interim Government and volunteers including members of Gen Z responded to the latest disaster caused by outgoing monsoon should be appreciated. The whole country suffered one way or the other from varying degree of heavy, incessant rain and its aftereffects such as flood, landslides and damaged highways and settlements. Several people were displaced and a number of people lost their lives. The government, unlike in the past, made its presence felt on the disaster spots and offered help for those who needed it. Young volunteers were also visible and ready to lend hand. Kathmandu Valley had witnessed similar disaster last year and years before that as well but the then governments had no plan for rescue or help. This time, however, things were different: shelters for the disaster victims were quickly made. Prime Minister Sushila Karki addressed the nation herself and asked people to remain calm and cooperative while informing how the government made preparation for reducing the adverse impact of the disaster. Ministers and other officials were also available day and night to respond to the disaster. Most of the main highways in all 7 provinces were closed; special arrangements were made for people who visited families for the great festival of Dashain. The challenge of disaster was for two days, and preparation for it was done well and professionally. Rainy season disaster has now become a regular visitor for Nepal; every year it damages settlements, riverside constructions and harms development projects in a serious manner. Planners and development workers should now take this point into consideration while designing and finalizing construction works. People in general should also pay attention to it. River sides and land slide areas should not be encroached; they should be given due respect and protected through a nature-based solution. Addressing the soil erosion problem in the whole country is the need; it is essential for preserving agriculture and land for development works. Failure to address it will result in huge loss of soil which will in turn cause series of other problems for the society and the people, living and employment. The rain disaster, also a result of climate change, should teach Nepalis lessons for preserving nature and adopting nature-based solutions. They cannot afford to forget it in their pursuit for modern development works.