Civilians, including highly trained volunteers, can play a role in disaster management
Summary
The flash flooding in Rasuwa district has prompted a debate over Nepal’s disaster response capacity, with calls for a dedicated civilian emergency corps to support search, rescue, and relief work. The piece argues that trained volunteers, NGOs, and specialized civilian units should complement the Nepal Army and other security agencies in future disasters.
Key Points
- A massive flash flood triggered by an ice avalanche in Rasuwa district has left Nepal in a major search-and-rescue operation involving the Nepal Army, Nepal Police, and the Armed Police Force.
- The article argues that Nepal should establish a National Civilian Emergency Corps under the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority to mobilize trained civilians during disasters.
- It cites international examples, including civilian rescue models in Europe and Asia, and suggests adapting volunteer systems such as the Female Community Health Volunteers model.
- The government of Prime Minister Balendra Shah is urged to develop a whole-of-nation disaster framework to reduce future losses from climate-driven calamities.
