KATHMANDU, March 6: The main opposition Nepali Congress (NC) on Friday has registered a motion of urgent public importance calling for a broader national solidarity to take initiations to prevent the outbreak of coronavirus. 

Tabling the urgent public importance motion at the House of Representatives on behalf of his party today, NC Lawmaker Gagan Kumar Thapa urged the government to launch an integrated program and formulate an action plan to prevent the spread of viral outbreak of COVID-19 that was originated in China in November.

"Although we don't have anything to worry about till date, we should be well-prepared to face the worst situation due to this health epidemic. What are we going to do if it goes insanely viral like in Iran?"

Reminding the fact that the World Health Organization (WHO) enlisted Nepal in the highly vulnerable countries to COVID-19, MP Thapa expressed his concerns over weak border security and poor availability of health facilities. He further stressed the need for a collective effort by all three tiers of government, ministries, parliament and community before it is late. 

He further went on to say, "As all other countries have started their preparations against this viral epidemic, we also need to track those who come from abroad including Nepali nationals." 

On the occasion, he also urged the government to disseminate information through one-door policy as people are left panic due to misleading information and rumors regarding the viral outbreak.  

Expressing concern over schools being run, House meetings being called and ministers on tour abroad amid the public announcement by the government to avoid public gatherings, he also urged to take necessary steps to ensure that hotels, airlines, banks and other sectors will not be affected by this. 

"I also request the government to ensure the public that there will not be any sort of shortage of daily commodities, medications and other essentials," said he adding that people should be well informed about the preparations being made by the government agencies in this regard. 

He further suggested the government taking initiation to check black marketing, expanding critical beds in health institutions and making preparations to use the unused buildings during the time of emergencies. 

Other lawmakers Sanjaya Kumar Gautam, Divyamani Rajbhandari, Rajendra Kumar KC and Dr Narayan Khadka seconded the motion.

 
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