MPs call for immediate relief measures in drought-hit Madhesh Province

Kathmandu: Lawmakers in the House of Representatives have urged the government to immediately announce relief and grant programs for Madhesh Province, which has been declared a disaster-hit area due to prolonged drought.

Highlighting the severe impact of climate change on daily life, MPs said people in the Terai region are struggling with shortages of drinking water and irrigation. They called for the government to allow farmers to operate pump sets and deep borings and to waive the electricity charges associated with them.

MPs also demanded urgent steps to protect the Chure region, control deforestation, and promote tree planting to prevent desertification and conserve water sources in Madhesh.

They stressed the need for immediate drinking water supply in settlements between the Postal Highway and East-West Highway, where acute shortages have been reported.

Further concerns were raised over the unavailability of fertilizers, unresolved issues faced by sugarcane farmers, unfair pricing for dairy producers, ineffective agricultural insurance, and the failure of government subsidies to reach actual farmers.

Lawmakers called for a long-term solution to the recurring fertilizer shortages during critical farming seasons. They also urged the government to provide treatment for those injured in accidents across the country and relief for the families of the deceased.

Several MPs demanded that drought-hit Lumbini Province also be declared a disaster zone and that relief measures be introduced there.

Meanwhile, lawmakers from the Rastriya Swatantra Party and Rastriya Prajatantra Party continued their boycott of the House session.