News

KATHMANDU, January 15, 2025 – Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli emphasized the importance of effective preparedness to mitigate the impacts of natural disasters like earthquakes during the 27th National Earthquake Safety Day commemorations today. Speaking at a major event organized by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA), the Prime Minister highlighted the progress made in building safer, integrated settlements following the 2015 Gorkha earthquake but stressed the need for continued efforts to ensure disaster resilience.  
The event, held to honor the victims of the 1934 Great Earthquake and the 2015 Gorkha earthquake, saw the participation of high-ranking officials, including Deputy Prime Minister Prakash Man Singh, Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak, and Minister for Physical Infrastructure and Transport Devendra Dahal. The Prime Minister acknowledged the achievements in reconstruction and rebuilding efforts post-2015 but called for a stronger focus on creating systematic and sustainable settlements.  “Earthquakes are unavoidable, but we can minimize their impact by constructing earthquake-resistant structures and enhancing preparedness,” PM Oli stated. He urged all stakeholders, including experts and communities, to collaborate in disaster preparedness initiatives, assuring that the government would lead these efforts.  
The Prime Minister also addressed the challenges faced by integrated settlements, particularly in generating employment and income for residents. He called for innovative solutions to ensure these settlements are not only safe but also economically viable. The event served as a platform to reflect on Nepal’s vulnerability to earthquakes and the need for continuous efforts to strengthen disaster preparedness. Participants reiterated the importance of community engagement, capacity building, and policy advocacy to build a disaster-resilient nation. The DPNet facilitate for the coordination among stakeholders for the program for the wider participation from different stakeholders. DPNet also set up a stall at the event to showcase its efforts in promoting disaster resilience across Nepal.