Nepal Launches Nationwide Disaster Hotline 1234

Nepal has launched a new nationwide disaster hotline, 1234, to help people report emergencies and request rescue assistance more quickly.

The Home Ministry said the new toll-free number replaces the previous hotline, 1149.

Calls from Kathmandu, Lalitpur and Bhaktapur will be answered by the National Emergency Operation Centre.

Calls from the other 74 districts will be automatically connected to the emergency operation centre in the caller’s district.

The ministry said the new system will make it easier for people to report disaster-related incidents, seek help and receive information.

It also urged the public to follow official government advisories during disasters and use 1234 when emergency assistance is needed.