Kathmandu: Minister for Urban Development Kulman Ghising has emphasized the need for developing settlements only after thorough studies to mitigate disaster risks. In his closing remarks at the Fourth National Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction, held since Monday in conjunction with the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction 2025, Ghising highlighted the annual challenges Nepal faces due to climate change, stressing the necessity for effective management and information systems.
According to National News Agency Nepal, the conference, organized by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA), saw Ghising pointing out issues in disaster management stemming from ineffective river and water management systems. He noted that food security and the unplanned development of settlements along riverbanks present significant challenges to disaster management. Ghising underscored the importance of conducting proper studies to determine suitable locations for settlements to ensure effective management.
Moreover, Ghising emphasized the need for disaster management to consider social perspectives. He stated that implementing water management strategies in nearly 30 river basins in Nepal would aid irrigation, improve drinking water management, and assist in flood control.
Executive Director at the NDRRMA, Dinesh Bhatta, underscored the necessity of empowering local governments and communities. He highlighted the importance of insuring physical infrastructure for disaster risk reduction and enhancing the capacity of security personnel dedicated to disaster management.
Additionally, Chairperson of the Disaster Preparedness Network Nepal (DPNET), Dr. Raju Thapa, advocated for increased investment in resilient areas, leveraging indigenous knowledge, and maximizing the use of local resources to prevent disasters.