Kathmandu: Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak has stressed the importance of collaboration between government and non-government sectors to reduce and manage disaster risks, especially ahead of the approaching monsoon season.

Speaking to journalists after a meeting of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA) on Tuesday, Minister Lekhak said that active discussions are ongoing to develop a coordinated strategy for disaster preparedness during the pre-monsoon period.

“We are in the pre-monsoon period, and the monsoon will arrive soon. We are discussing how to reduce risks and manage disasters effectively when they occur. The private sector, such as the rafting and mountaineering associations, has the expertise and resources to assist in rescue operations,” said Lekhak. “It is essential that both governmental and non-governmental entities work together to prepare and respond to disasters.”

The meeting also included discussions with national and international organizations capable of supporting disaster mitigation efforts. The goal, according to Lekhak, is to establish a unified understanding and response framework for disaster scenarios.

Engineer Dinesh Bhatta, Executive Chief of the NDRRMA, highlighted that the authority is actively working on a comprehensive monsoon response plan. He said that consultations have already taken place with key stakeholders including the Rafting Association and Mountaineering Association, focusing on Himalayan rescue operations and flood response.

“This year is expected to bring more rainfall and higher temperatures than last year, so we are working on better preparations,” Bhatta said. “We’ve received positive commitments of support from private sector partners.”

Officials from Nepal’s three security forces, the Department of Roads, and representatives from the World Food Programme also took part in the meeting, signaling a multi-sectoral approach to strengthening the country’s disaster resilience.