Parliament Passes Special Motion on Bhotekoshi Flood Disaster

The House of Representatives has unanimously passed a special motion concerning the Bhotekoshi flood disaster in Rasuwa.

Speaker Dol Prasad Aryal presented the motion during Wednesday’s parliamentary meeting, paying tribute to both Nepali and foreign nationals who lost their lives in the disaster and expressing condolences to their bereaved families, relatives and respective countries. He also wished those injured a speedy recovery.

The motion calls on the government and relevant agencies to remain sensitive to the economic and psychosocial conditions of disaster-affected communities and ensure the safety and protection of women and children, along with access to essential services.

Speaker Aryal also linked the increasing risks in the Himalayan region to rising temperatures associated with climate change. He stressed the need for Nepal to strengthen its position internationally on national security challenges arising from climate change and to raise the issue of climate-related loss and damage more strongly in international discussions.

“The Rasuwa disaster has taught us an important lesson. We must build a culture of preparedness, not just focus on post-disaster management. Regular monitoring of glacial lakes and glaciers must be prioritised,” Aryal said.

He urged the federal, provincial and local governments, political parties, civil society and all state mechanisms to mobilise resources and intensify rescue efforts, while ensuring the rehabilitation of displaced people.

The House also observed a one-minute silence in memory of those who lost their lives in the Bhotekoshi flood.

The next meeting of the House of Representatives has been scheduled for September 3 at 1 p.m.