Kathmandu— The Nepali government is launching a geological study of areas in western Nepal severely impacted by landslides during the current monsoon season. The decision was made Sunday at a meeting of the Monsoon Response Command Post of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA), focusing on Thawang and Sunchhahari rural municipalities in Rolpa, Triveni municipality in Bajura, and Bheri municipality in Jajarkot district. The study aims to assess damage, identify ongoing risks, and inform future reconstruction efforts following what authorities describe as widespread havoc caused by monsoon-induced disasters.

Damage Assessment and Study Team

The NDRRMA has directed the formation of a study team led by its own representatives, with participation from the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology. This team is expected to be deployed to the affected areas within three days to conduct a preliminary geological assessment of the landslide sites. The focus will be on understanding the extent of the damage and identifying areas at continued risk.

Rescue, Relief, and Reconstruction Efforts

Alongside the geological study, the command post has emphasized the need for effective search, rescue, relief, and rehabilitation work in the disaster-stricken districts. District administration offices, disaster management committees, and local authorities have been instructed to provide free medical treatment to those injured and distribute relief materials based on rapid damage assessments. Plans are also underway to construct temporary housing for displaced individuals and begin processes for retrofitting damaged homes and providing reconstruction grants.

Public Safety Warnings

The NDRRMA has expressed serious concern over the loss of life and property caused by the landslides, urging immediate acceleration of rescue operations. It is also advising citizens to remain highly vigilant during the monsoon season due to increased landslide risks from heavy rainfall in hilly and mountainous regions. Residents are being cautioned against non-essential travel given the ongoing dangers of inundation, flooding, flash floods, and debris flows.

The NDRRMA continues to monitor the situation closely and coordinate relief efforts as the monsoon season progresses.

(With inputs from RN)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.