Kathmandu: Energy, Water Resources, and Irrigation Minister Deepak Khadka has urged all departments under his ministry to prioritize the safety of the public during this time of national crisis.

In a press release issued today, Minister Khadka expressed concern over the significant loss of life and property caused by the continuous rainfall across the country since Thursday. He called on the agencies under the Ministry of Energy, Water Resources, and Irrigation to remain vigilant and work actively to prevent further damage.

“I urge all offices and employees under the Ministry of Energy, Water Resources, and Irrigation to engage in relief and rescue operations and work tirelessly to ensure the safety of the public during this disaster,” the minister stated in the press release.

He further requested everyone to remain safe as the rainfall continues, maintaining the risk of further disasters. Minister Khadka emphasized the need for collective efforts to minimize damage and prevent additional losses.

The heavy rainfall over the past two days has caused severe flooding and landslides across much of the country, resulting in significant loss of life and property.

National highways, secondary roads, bridges, and settlements have been blocked or swept away by landslides and floods. Even modern infrastructure, including hydropower projects, has sustained heavy damage.

Minister Khadka noted that this unforeseen natural disaster, which struck just before the great festival of Dashain, has severely disrupted the daily lives of citizens. He urged everyone to move to safe locations, particularly higher ground, to avoid flood-prone areas.

The minister also called on the three security forces—the Nepal Army, Nepal Police, and Armed Police Force—along with district administration offices and government employees, to work day and night on relief, rescue, and response efforts.

Additionally, he appealed to the party’s affiliate and well-wisher organizations, social organizations, NGOs, clubs, social activists, and the general public to support each other during this time of crisis and move forward in unity.

Despite limited resources, the government is leaving no stone unturned in providing relief, rescue, and response efforts, the minister said. He mentioned that the government would soon announce relief and rehabilitation programs after collecting accurate data on the damages. The minister concluded with a heartfelt appeal for everyone to remain calm and vigilant.