KATHMANDU, Aug 5: Acting Prime Minister Prakash Man Singh has directed all government agencies to remain on high alert in view of the increasing risks of monsoon-related disasters across the country.
During a meeting held on Tuesday at the Ministry of Urban Development—which included Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak, Defense Minister Manbir Rai, Chief Secretary Ek Narayan Aryal, and Executive Chief of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA), Dinesh Bhatt—Singh was briefed on the current weather patterns and potential disaster risks in various parts of the country.
Singh instructed all concerned bodies to stay prepared, minimize damage in case of incidents and remain on ‘high alert’ for search and rescue operations. Singh also stressed the need to strengthen the early warning system through SMS alerts, local media, and security agencies in vulnerable areas.
NDRRMA introduces ‘Monsoon Preparedness and Response Plan’

NDRRMA Chief Bhatt informed the meeting that rain-triggering weather systems are currently active in Dang, Banke, and Bardiya districts of Lumbini Province. Heavy rainfall has already pushed the Babai and western Rapti rivers beyond danger levels, raising the possibility of flooding in Bardiya within the next 4 to 5 hours.
Singh also inquired about the drought conditions in Madhesh Province. Bhatt said the region has seen light rainfall recently and that about 80 percent of paddy transplantation has been completed. The meeting was also informed of the likelihood of heavy rain tonight in Kailali and Kanchanpur, while monsoon activity is expected to intensify in Makwanpur as well.
Home Minister Lekhak stated that chief district officers, heads of local security bodies, and chief administrative officers at the local level have been instructed not to leave their posts except in cases of absolute urgency, given the increased risk of monsoon disasters.