Preparedness, early warning vital to prevent loss of lives, property: Energy Minister

Kathmandu, May 21: Minister for Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation, Dipak Khadka, has said the weather forecasting should not be limited to a scientific document but also expanded to action.

Any policy to be made hereafter should take into account the weather forecast and preparedness because the erratic weather patterns and climate change impacts have been on the rise of late. Minister Khadka said it while inaugurating the ‘National Weather Forum-2025’ organised by the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology on Wednesday.

“Weather forecasting and proper early warning help not only save lives and property but also contribute to policy making and protection of resources,” he said, adding that even those climbing mountains could benefit from early warning.

According to him, the first agency to respond to disaster management is the local level, so the information from the weather service should reach the local levels and wards. Minister Khadka also shared that the government had prioritised budget allocation to the department. Director General at the Department, Kamal Ram Joshi, stated that weather forecasting would be made further scientific and participatory.