Kathmandu : The Kathmandu Metropolitan City Office has expected fewer incidences of river-based disaster during this monsoon compared to the previous years. The removal of settlements established on the riverbanks in Kathmandu, especially at wards numbers 11, 14, 31 and 32 has provided a ground for this expectation of the local government.

KMC Municipal Police’s Senior Superintendent of Police, Bishnu Prasad Joshi, informed only sporadic cases of river-based disaster have been expected this year. However, continued vigilance is suggested along the area from Samakhusi to Khadipakha.

The local government has also prepared a strategic plan to address potential water-induced incidences in Kathmandu during the rainy season. The vulnerable areas have been identified accordingly. The strategic plans focus on disaster risk reduction preparedness, management, post-disaster rehabilitation, capacity enhancement at ward and community-levels and coordination between internal agencies and partner organisations to mitigate urban disaster risks.

He also echoed the need for establishing a participatory mechanism to ensure urban safety. The strategic plan is expected to highlight the significance of collective knowledge, skills and mindset development to cope with the crisis. The implementation of such strategic plan will commence in the upcoming fiscal year, with the necessary programmes and budget to be proposed accordingly.