There should be brief chain-of-command in disaster response: CoAS Sigdel
Summary
Chief of the Army Staff Ashok Raj Sigdel has called for a clear chain of command and better coordination in disaster response after lessons from the Bhotekoshi and Budhigandaki corridors. He said rescue operations need stronger airspace management, better equipment, and district-led coordination backed by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority.
Key Points
- Ashok Raj Sigdel said disaster response needs a brief, clearly defined chain of command to avoid operational confusion between army, security, and civilian bodies.
- He cited airspace management problems during the Bhotekoshi floods and called for tighter control of helicopters and drones during rescue operations.
- The Nepali Army urged better preparedness, including specialized rescue teams, equipment for tunnels and submerged structures, and multi-risk assessment before development projects.
- The army said district authorities should lead disaster response, restoration, reconstruction, and recovery with support from the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority.
