Khumaltar: Home Minister Om Prakash Aryal has emphasized that effective disaster risk mitigation is unattainable without community initiation and engagement. During his address at the fourth National Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction, organized by the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction -2025 in Khumaltar, the Minister highlighted the necessity for cooperation, coordination, and participation from various sectors in managing disaster risks.
According to National News Agency Nepal, the Minister pointed out that Nepal is situated in a disaster-prone zone, experiencing significant damage from recent disasters. He noted that while Nepal is geographically beautiful, it faces numerous natural hazards. The Minister stressed that these disasters have impeded the nation’s development efforts, citing significant earthquakes and landslides as examples that underscore the need for improved management. He asserted that disaster risk reduction is a top priority for the government.
Minister Aryal further stated that disasters should not be solely blamed on natural causes but also on social, structural, and policy deficiencies. He urged for multiple mechanisms from central to local levels to work effectively in disaster management.
Executive Director of the National Disaster Management Risk Reduction and Management Authority, Dinesh Bhatta, emphasized the need to make disaster management efforts more effective and reliable. He highlighted the importance of addressing the increasing frequency of natural disasters.
Australian Ambassador to Nepal, Leann Johnston, expressed hope that the conference would aid in implementing disaster pre-warning systems and exchanging good practices at the community level. She emphasized the significance of addressing challenges posed by landslides, floods, and earthquakes through a gender-sensitive approach.
At the event organized by ICIMOD, Director General Pema Gyamtsho stressed the importance of raising awareness, managing resources, and mobilizing efforts in disaster preparedness. The conference is set to conclude the following day.