KATHMANDU, Sept 24: As forecasts warn of heavy to very heavy rainfall across parts of the country over the coming days, the Ministry of Health and Food Safety has instructed the health sector to remain on high alert and prepare for a possible surge in disaster-related emergencies.
Citing the risk of floods, landslides and inundation, the ministry has asked provincial ministries responsible for health and social development, the Department of Health Services, health science academies and federal hospitals to put emergency response mechanisms in place and ensure readiness to respond swiftly if disasters occur.
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The directive follows weather forecasts issued by the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology, which has warned of intense rainfall in several regions from September 25 to 27.
The ministry has instructed health workers to remain reachable at all times, including during public holidays, and to be prepared for immediate deployment if needed. Health institutions have also been asked to make the necessary logistical and operational arrangements to minimize risks and maintain essential services during any emergency.
In a bid to strengthen preparedness, the ministry has directed Provincial Health Emergency Operation Centers to remain operational round the clock and closely monitor the evolving weather situation.
The move comes as authorities across multiple sectors ramp up disaster preparedness efforts amid concerns that prolonged rainfall could trigger flash floods, landslides and disruptions to transportation and public services, particularly in vulnerable areas.
Health officials say maintaining emergency medical services, ensuring the availability of essential supplies and enabling rapid deployment of personnel will be critical if weather-related disasters affect communities in the coming days.
