Government Ready for Monsoon Disasters, Says Home Minister Sudan Gurung

Kathmandu: Home Minister Sudan Gurung has stated that the government has completed the necessary preparations to tackle monsoon-induced disasters. Speaking to journalists on Thursday after a meeting of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority held to discuss monsoon preparedness and response, he mentioned that effective preparations have been made this time based on past experiences.

He informed that necessary instructions have been given to security agencies to ensure the safety of citizens during disasters, and various teams have already been mobilized. Minister Gurung noted that rather than ministerial inspections, the priority this time is placed on the security and rescue of the public, adding that there is a plan to deploy resources, including helicopters, if necessary.

He said, "Since I have been working in this field for a long time, the preparedness is quite good. Accordingly, security agencies have also been deployed. We have also instructed different teams based on that. This time, instead of ministerial inspections, we are planning to deploy everything from helicopters for the safety of the people."

He clarified that the policy is to continue the positive work done by previous governments while improving on the weaknesses that have emerged. He stated that the government aims to make institutional reforms and coordination more effective in the field of disaster management.

Home Minister Gurung mentioned that citizen security is the major responsibility of the government, adding that he wants to establish the Ministry of Home Affairs as a trustworthy institution for every citizen, especially women. He claimed that the government is committed to the security and service of every citizen, and that the police organization is currently working more effectively than before.

He said, "By encouraging the good work done by the previous government, we are continuing it by addressing the shortcomings. The Ministry of Home Affairs should be thought of as a maternal home for every woman. We want to stand as a family for every woman. We work for the security and service of every citizen, and the police are working more effectively now than before."

Informing that regular discussions are being held with high-ranking police officials regarding crime control, he clarified that there will be no political bias in law enforcement. He stated that individuals engaging in wrongful activities will be brought within the scope of legal action, regardless of which party or group they belong to.

He warned that the performance of officials from security agencies will be closely evaluated, and necessary actions will be taken against those who fail to work according to their responsibilities. Additionally, he mentioned that a policy has been adopted to encourage employees who perform well and to make promotions completely performance-based.

Minister Gurung noted past discussions regarding political pressure, access, and maneuvering during promotions, and informed that instructions have been given to end such practices, ensuring that promotions are based solely on employee competence, honesty, and performance.