Public Announcements Conducted in Tikapur Settlements Following Heavy Rainfall Warning

Kailali : A local awareness campaign has been launched in Baidi, Tikapur Municipality–7, Kailali, following forecasts of heavy rainfall and the possibility of floods and inundation. Residents of vulnerable settlements have been alerted through public announcements after forecasts indicated increased rainfall from Ashoj 9 to 11.

Based on a special weather bulletin issued by the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology, the Early Warning Subcommittee of the Baidi Disaster Management Committee conducted public announcements in Dhunganatole, Majhgaun, Hulakitole, Khayarjhalla, Dandatole and Kuntipur. Residents were informed about the possible risks of floods, inundation and landslides and urged to make necessary preparations.

As heavy rainfall could increase water levels in rivers and streams, residents living near riverbanks, streams and other vulnerable areas have been advised to exercise extra caution. They have also been urged to avoid unnecessary travel during periods of heightened risk and keep essential belongings in safe locations, said Narendra Prasad Regmi, chairperson of the Baidi Disaster Management Committee.

According to Regmi, the main objective of the campaign is to prepare communities in advance by providing timely information about potential risks rather than relying solely on rescue and relief efforts after a disaster occurs. He urged residents to take weather forecasts seriously and avoid unnecessary movement near rivers, streams and other risk-prone areas.

Committee secretary Bhojraj Dhungana said priority has been given to local-level information dissemination to reduce potential losses caused by a lack of timely information during emergencies. He said the campaign to alert community members in advance would continue.

Committee chairperson Regmi, secretary Dhungana, treasurer Basudev Koirala and Early Warning Subcommittee coordinator Sushila Basnet, among others, participated in the campaign.

For information related to floods and rainfall, people can contact 1155. For disaster-related assistance, they can call 1234, Nepal Police at 100, and the Armed Police Force at 1114. Local residents have also been urged to regularly follow updates and warnings issued by the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology and the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority.