Vehicle Movement to Resume Only After Disaster Risk Assessment: NDRRMA

Kathmandu, July 19: The government has said vehicles will be allowed to operate in monsoon-affected districts only after authorities assess weather conditions and disaster risks, prioritising public safety amid forecasts of heavy rainfall.

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA) has stepped up disaster preparedness after the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology predicted heavy to very heavy rainfall in 21 districts across the country.

Acting Chief Executive Officer of NDRRMA, Pradeep Kumar Koirala, said vehicle movement on roads vulnerable to landslides and floods would be permitted only after confirming that conditions are safe.

“Public safety is our top priority. Vehicles will operate only after evaluating the actual weather situation and road conditions,” Koirala said.

He added that NDRRMA is coordinating closely with security agencies, district administrations, and the Department of Roads. Highway traffic and transport services on other roads will resume only after the risk level is deemed to have subsided.

The Authority has also appealed to the public to check official weather forecasts and road condition updates before travelling, avoid unnecessary journeys on high-risk routes, and strictly follow instructions issued by local administrations and security agencies.