Lack of Law Hinders Relief for Flood Victims, Says Official
Summary
Relief distribution for families affected by the Rasuwa Bhote Koshi flood has been hampered by gaps in the legal framework, according to National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority spokesperson Shanti Mahat. The government has begun work to amend disaster, civil code, and registration laws so missing persons can be treated as deceased under certain conditions and relief can be delivered more easily.
Key Points
- Shanti Mahat said the lack of a clear legal basis has made it difficult to distribute relief and register deaths for families affected by the Rasuwa Bhote Koshi flood.
- About 5,000 people are preliminarily reported missing, but the figure is still being verified by local levels and ward offices.
- The government is preparing amendments to the Disaster Act, the Civil Code, 2074 BS, and related registration laws to simplify relief and death registration for missing persons.
- Officials also want stronger resettlement rules and an upgraded early warning system for Himalayan flood and avalanche risks.
