Kathmandu__
President Ram Chandra Paudel has called on all Nepalis to remain calm and united during the difficult situation created by the Bhotekoshi flood.
Expressing deep sorrow over the irreparable losses caused by the flood triggered by an avalanche of glacial ice and rocks on Bhadra 10, President Paudel made a special address to the nation. In his address, President Paudel described the natural disaster as “horrifying and unimaginable.”
He expressed serious concern over the heavy loss of lives and property caused by the floods and landslides, as well as the destruction of vital national infrastructure, including roads, bridges and hydropower projects.
President Paudel paid heartfelt tribute to Nepali and foreign citizens who lost their lives in the disaster and expressed condolences to the bereaved families. He wished the injured a speedy recovery and directed the concerned authorities to intensify the search for missing persons and rescue operations.
Stating that Nepal regards every foreign citizen in the country as a member of its family, he said effective coordination was being maintained with the governments and diplomatic missions of the affected countries.
Praising the Nepal Army, Nepal Police, Armed Police Force, health workers, local representatives and volunteers who have been engaged in rescue operations without regard for their own safety, the President described their efforts as an outstanding example of the Nepali national character. Despite difficult terrain and adverse weather conditions, he urged the concerned agencies to continue search operations and not abandon rescue efforts under any circumstances.
The President stressed the need to ensure clean drinking water, food, medicines and safe shelter for rescued citizens. He particularly urged sensitivity in protecting children, senior citizens, persons with disabilities and pregnant women.
He suggested that the government collect DNA samples and maintain scientific records to establish the identities of the deceased and make the identification process reliable.
The President expressed gratitude to neighboring friendly countries and the international community for providing assistance during the disaster, including technical experts, medical teams and equipment. In this context, he linked the fragile conditions in the Himalayan region to global temperature rise and called on the international community to take concrete steps for “climate justice” on international platforms.
President Paudel made it clear that the present is not a time for political disputes or blaming one another, but for demonstrating national unity and solidarity.
He said, “This is not a time for division; it is a time for reconstruction and economic recovery.”
He also underscored the need to reconsider Nepal’s current development model to reduce the risks of such disasters in the future.
– News Agency Nepal