Monsoon Fury

AS THIS year’s monsoon began in the first week of June, a week ahead of the usual time, it has brought both happiness and sorrow to the Nepalese people. It came as a harbinger of happiness because farmers, most of whom still depend on monsoon rain for irrigation, could engage in planting activities in time and expect a good harvest this year. The initial indications are that the timely monsoon showers would greatly benefit the agro-based economy of Nepal. But, at the same time, the onslaught of monsoon has invited miseries to many families. Every year, monsoon causes flood and mud slides in different parts of the country leading to loss of life and property. Such natural catastrophes used to take place at the height of monsoon but some unusual trends of the monsoon rains have been noticed this year. Even at the outset, according to information provided by the Ministry of Home, floods and landslides caused by the heavy monsoon rains last week led to much damage to life and property. Seventeen persons were killed, 13 injured, 220 houses destroyed completely and property worth over 9.8 million rupees was damaged by floods and landslides. The real fury of monsoon, which is expected in July, is yet to arrive in Nepal and that can cause more destruction

Indications are that the onslaught of monsoon could be heavier and stronger this year. This calls for greater preparedness on the part of the government and other concerned agencies for the mitigation, relief and rescue measures in order to ensure minimum damage. Another important lesson we need to learn is that human activities are partially responsible for the increased fury of floods and landslides during monsoon. The destruction of forests and over exploitation of natural resources especially in the Mahabharat and Churia ranges have caused heavy erosion of soil, flood and landslides which bring great catastrophe in the mountainous and terai areas. Against this background, greater preparedness for the rescue and rehabilitation of the possible victims of floods and landslides as well as measures for the mitigation of such calamities are highly needed. For this, sustained efforts for protecting the environment through afforestation programmes need to be given priority in order to check natural calamity in the future. The monsoon fury being an annual feature, vigilance and preparedness is of utmost importance.

Other Story

• Behind The Walls