Gandaki CM stresses community awareness to prevent river and lake accidents

Gandaki Province Chief Minister Surendra Raj Pandey has emphasized the need for regular community-level awareness and preparedness to reduce potential accidents in river and lake areas. He expressed this view while addressing a simulated rescue exercise program jointly organized by the District Administration Office Kaski and security agencies in Pokhara.

He noted that early warning systems, effective coordination, and regular drills play a crucial role in minimizing human and physical losses during disasters. Highlighting these risks, he clarified that the provincial government has prioritized disaster management and mitigation programs.

Recalling that Pokhara is known as the city of lakes and is Nepal’s tourism capital, the Chief Minister stated that the lakes here significantly contribute to tourism and economic activities. He also stressed the need to enhance the readiness and rescue capabilities of security agencies to prevent potential accidents in tourist areas and ensure the safety of citizens’ lives and property.

Chief Minister Pandey remarked, “As beautiful as Gandaki Province is naturally, it is equally sensitive due to its geographical structure. The diverse geography, rivers, and lakes increase the risk of natural disasters such as floods, landslides, inundations, and storms annually.” He believes that such simulated exercises are effective in boosting the morale of security agencies and stakeholders involved in immediate rescue operations during potential disasters.