Kathmandu [Nepal], August 30 – Finance Minister Dr Swarnim Wagle on Saturday inspected flood-affected areas in Nuwakot and reviewed ongoing search, rescue and relief operations following the devastating floods.
Wagle reached the district headquarters Bidur early Saturday and visited the relief and rescue command post operated under the leadership of the Nepali Army. He was briefed by Lieutenant General Ranjit Thapa who is leading the rescue operation.
Thapa said rescuing missing people alive remains the top priority and that teams have been working since Wednesday. With the operation entering its next phase rescuing people believed to be trapped inside tunnels at hydropower projects has become a major focus.
He also said authorities were providing temporary shelter, food and other relief supplies to displaced people and stressed the immediate need for Bailey bridges in the flood-hit areas.
Wagle assured the Nepali Army of the government’s full support for rescue, medical treatment and rehabilitation urging personnel to report any shortages or additional requirements without hesitation.
The finance minister also inspected an aerial rescue centre at the Nepali Army’s Gauthali Barracks and relief collection and distribution centres. He met families of victims and listened to their concerns.
Wagle visited flood-damaged Dhunge Bazaar, Devighat Bazaar, the Galchhi-Rasuwagadhi road section, an Ayurvedic centre at Tallo Pipalatar and a holding centre at Chandra Jyoti School. He also met rescued residents and injured victims to assess their condition.
Wagle and Communications Minister Dr Bikram Timalsina later held discussions with local representatives and political leaders on coordinating post-disaster rescue, relief, treatment and rehabilitation efforts.
Wagle said the central government would ensure that resources were available and urged authorities to work together so that affected communities face no shortage of essential support.
