Kathmandu: Minister for Home Affairs, Ramesh Lekhak, has called for unity and collective efforts among all political parties to address the ongoing rain-induced disasters affecting various parts of the country. Speaking at a meeting of the District Disaster Management Committee in Kavrepalanchowk on Monday, Minister Lekhak emphasized that natural calamities affect everyone equally, urging parties not to politicize the situation.

Minister Lekhak highlighted the government's commitment to distributing relief materials and rehabilitating those displaced by the recent disasters. Torrential rains on September 27-29 have resulted in 246 deaths, 178 injuries, and 18 people missing across the country. The disasters have caused significant damage to infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and homes, with financial losses exceeding Rs 25 billion.

During the meeting, Lekhak stressed the need for swift action to restore essential services such as roads, telecommunications, electricity, and healthcare. He noted that the government’s four-tier disaster management mechanisms—from national to local levels—are working in coordination to deliver relief, rebuild damaged infrastructure, and rehabilitate survivors.

The government has pledged Rs 200,000 in compensation for families affected by the disasters, with an initial Rs 25,000 provided to help rebuild homes. Families will also receive Rs 15,000 to Rs 30,000 for food, depending on household size. Lekhak urged local authorities to quickly identify victims and ensure the compensation distribution process runs smoothly.

He also assured the deployment of helicopters to deliver essential goods to isolated areas not connected by road. Additionally, Lekhak said more local levels in Kavrepalanchowk may be declared disaster crisis zones based on the recommendations of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA).

Several local representatives, including federal parliamentarian Suryaman Dong and rural municipality leaders, expressed concerns over the lack of effective security and infrastructure management. They called for urgent restoration of road networks, electricity, and communication services, as well as the declaration of further disaster crisis zones to facilitate relief efforts.

Chief District Officer Umesh Kumar Dhakal briefed the minister on the disaster management progress in the region, underscoring the importance of continued coordination for effective disaster response.