KARNALI, April 2: Chief Minister of Karnali Province Jivan Bahadur Shahi has stressed on collaboration among the three-tier government for disaster risk reduction (DRR).

Inaugurating the Humanitarian Staging Area at Itram of Birendranagar, Surkhet district today, CM Shahi said that everyone should pay attention to the preparedness in order to reduce the risk of natural disasters.

The newly-built Area provides emergency logistics support to the government during disaster emergencies. The structure has a godown for storing food items and other logistics for emergencies.

Stating that disaster management requires human resources mobilization, and availability of equipment and preparedness, the Chief Minister Shahi emphasized the need of coordination and collaboration among three-tier governments for the same.

He also pointed out the need for cooperation from the government and development stakeholders for DRR. Stating that Karnali Province is at high risk of natural disasters, he called for everyone's attention towards preparedness efforts.

Also speaking on the occasion, Minister for Internal Affairs and Law of the provincial government Him Bahadur Shahi highlighted the need for common efforts in prevention, reduction and control of the natural disasters. 

He extended his gratitude towards the UK government and World Food Programme (WFP) in building the Area and assured that the newly-built structure would be valued as a huge asset for the Karnali Province. 

Likewise, officiating secretary of Karnali Province government Aananda Saru viewed that the State should play a parental role in disaster management. 

Also speaking at the event, WFP country director Robert Kasca said that the WFP has been working in the field of disaster risk management and pledged to continue the coordination with Karnali Province for the same. 

Pradeep Kumar Koirala, Chief of Conflict and Disaster Management Division  under the Ministry of Home Affairs, said the Humanitarian Staging Area was built in Surkhet in consideration of the risk of natural disasters in Karnali Province. 

He urged the Birendranagar Municipality Mayor to keep open areas in Birendranagar intact for rescue and relief operation prior and post the disasters. 

Chief District Officer of Surkhet Khagendra Prasad Rijal shed light on the lack of trained human resources and equipment in Karnali for disaster risk reduction.

WFP communication officer Monica Upadhyay shared that the newly-inaugurated structure was built at the cost of Rs 40 million.

 
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