Resource crunch hampering disaster management: Acting army chief

KATHMANDU, Sept 4: Acting Chief of Army Chhatraman Singh Gurung, said that Nepal is lagging behind in disaster management capability due to “inadequate resources” and “lack of skilled manpower.” [break]



Speaking at the closing ceremony of the nine-day Tempest Express-17 Workshop jointly organized by the Nepal Army and the US-Pacific Command, Gurung said, “Nepal Army has been a primary responder in all cases of natural disasters in the country. But a broader collaboration among the civil and military personnel is needed in future to minimize the impact of such disasters.”







Pointing at the usefulness of such a workshop which focus at “disaster preparedness,” Gurung added that the workshop would contribute to formulating “clear rules and procedures” when disasters of unprecedented scale strike in the country.



The workshop attended by both military and private sector representatives of 24 countries deliberated on disaster management, coordination among NGOs, INGOs and military personnel during disaster times and also preparations and deployment of military personnel in humanitarian work.



Also speaking on the occasion, Director General of Military Operation, NA, Gaurab SJB Rana, said, “The workshop is fruitful as it has dealt with rapid response strategy,” adding that through such program “one can see the commitment of the international community to provide assistance in time of need for Nepal”.



The Interim Constitution recognizes the ability of the NA to mobilize humanitarian assistance and disaster relief without bureaucratic hassles.







Major General Stephen D Tom, the chief of staff, US-Pacific Command, said that the effectiveness to respond in times of emergency also depends on the how effective the national government is. He said, “Collaboration among the military, government and private sector is crucial to respond in times of emergency.”



Recalling the Koshi disaster of last year, USAID Mission Director, Dr Kevin A. Rushing said that since Nepal is prone to large-scale flooding each year, the workshop has helped in finding ways at improving the abilities of those in rescue mission.

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