Energy Minister stresses on reliable weather, disaster information

KATHMANDU, AUGUST 24: It appears that the government is focusing on enhancing the reliability and credibility of weather and disaster-related information by improving the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology. The government aims to achieve this by providing better resources and equipment to the department. Real-time information on hydrology and meteorology has become available due to recent installations of equipment across the country, and the government intends to further streamline this process.

During an observation and inspection visit to the Department, Minister for Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation, Shakti Bahadur Basnet, emphasized the importance of equipping the Department for more accurate and reliable weather forecasting.

He highlighted the Department's role in preventing loss of life and property through flood and landslide forecasts. Currently, the Department provides information to various levels of government, including lawmakers and local authorities, as well as citizens in flood and landslide-affected areas through SMS notifications.

Minister Basnet stressed the need for effective disaster preparedness due to erratic weather patterns attributed to climate change. He reaffirmed the government's commitment to strengthening institutions like the Department to better cope with weather-associated challenges such as excessive rainfall, irregular rainfall, and drought.

Jagadishwar Man Karmacharya, the Director-General of the Department, mentioned that while weather forecasting may have been considered unreliable five to seven years ago, significant improvements have been made in recent times. The Department has expanded its services to provide 24-hour weather forecasts and special weather bulletins for three and seven days. Collaborative efforts with neighboring countries have contributed to making weather forecasting more accurate.

Gopal Sigdel, the Secretary at the Ministry of Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation, was also present during the occasion.

Overall, the government's efforts seem to be aimed at modernizing the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology to enhance its ability to provide accurate and timely weather and disaster-related information, which in turn contributes to the safety and well-being of the citizens.