MPs urge government to intensify search for those missing in Bhotekoshi floods

Kathmandu: Lawmakers have urged the government to intensify the search and rescue efforts for people who went missing or lost contact with their families following the devastating Bhotekoshi floods.

Speaking during the emergency session of the House of Representatives on Thursday, MPs called on the government to ensure accountability towards the families of those who remain missing and provide clear information about the ongoing search and rescue operations.

They also demanded that authorities expedite the search for missing workers employed at hydropower projects and tourists in the flood-affected areas, while providing affected families with timely and accurate information.

The lawmakers stressed the need to establish health camps in the affected areas to prevent the outbreak of epidemics, ensure prompt medical treatment for those injured and provide necessary psychosocial counselling to families who have lost their loved ones.

They also urged the government to arrange safe and separate accommodation for women, adolescents and children affected by the floods. MPs expressed concern that many of them are being forced to live together in crowded tents, potentially compromising their privacy, safety and dignity.

The lawmakers further called for the immediate identification and protection of children who were separated from or lost their families in the disaster, along with arrangements to ensure the continuity of their education.

They also drew the government’s attention to the need for effective relief distribution, proper management and protection of affected communities, the immediate reopening of blocked highways, adequate rescue equipment and measures to reduce road accidents in disaster-affected areas.