Kathmandu: Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak announced that Nepal is making significant strides in enhancing disaster response capabilities. Speaking at the 27th Earthquake Safety Day program in Kirtipur, the minister highlighted the readiness of trained responders for search, rescue, and relief operations. He also noted that systematic mobilization of security agencies and disaster response organizations is now in place.

Minister Lekhak shared that preparations are being finalized to hand over emergency warehouses to all provinces, with operational procedures being developed for their efficient use. Efforts to construct earthquake-resistant structures are set to become more effective, he said, as part of broader measures to strengthen disaster preparedness, response, and reconstruction at the community level. These initiatives will involve government agencies, the private sector, and non-governmental organizations.

The minister underscored the importance of integrating new technologies with traditional methods to raise awareness about disaster mitigation and response. He also announced that the Council of Ministers has approved and implemented temporary construction standards, which include Rs 50,000 in assistance for constructing temporary housing for earthquake-affected citizens, including those in Jajarkot.

Additionally, Minister Lekhak revealed that the procedure for constructing permanent housing has been approved by the working committee and that damage assessments for the Jajarkot earthquake will begin this month.

These developments reflect Nepal's commitment to bolstering its disaster management framework and building resilience against future natural disasters.