Kathmandu: The Government of Nepal has projected that nearly two million people could be affected by monsoon-related disasters across the country this year. The projection was made during the 32nd meeting of the Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Executive Committee, chaired by Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak. The meeting also approved the National Action Plan for Monsoon Preparedness and Response, 2082 to prepare for the upcoming challenges.

According to NEA spokesperson Ram Bahadur KC, the action plan—formulated by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NEA) with input from multiple ministries and government agencies—estimates that approximately 1,997,731 people from 457,145 households are at risk of being impacted by floods, landslides, and other monsoon-induced disasters this year.

The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology has forecast above-average rainfall in most parts of Nepal during this year’s monsoon season, heightening the risk of natural calamities. In response, the meeting has directed the Ministry of Urban Development to coordinate with the Nepal Army to remove the blockage at Chobhar Gulchhi. The obstruction in the river channel was blamed for severe flooding in Kathmandu areas such as Nakkhu, Kuleshwor, Thapathali, and Balkhu during heavy rains last year between Asoj 20 and 23.

The National Action Plan outlines monsoon forecasts, disaster risk estimates, designated responsibilities for government bodies, thematic response strategies, emergency contact lists, and an inventory of necessary supplies and trained personnel. The meeting also passed the Emergency Warehouse Operation Procedure, 2081 (First Amendment) to ensure efficient logistics management during emergencies.

In addition, NEA Executive Chief Dinesh Prasad Bhatta reviewed the progress of decisions taken during the 31st meeting, presented a report on the status of emergency warehouse implementation, and shared updates on the National Strategic Action Plan for Disaster Risk Reduction (2018–2030). Proposals such as restoring river flow in Chobhar were also approved.

Officials emphasized that effective disaster preparedness and coordinated action across sectors are crucial to mitigating the anticipated impacts of this year's monsoon season.