Lalitpur Metropolitan City has installed an early warning system in two locations to provide prior information about flood-related natural disasters.
Lalitpur is the first local government to install such a system. According to the Disaster Management Division of the Metropolitan, the system has been set up at Karmanasha Bridge in Ward No. 28, Harisiddhi, and near Nakkhu Khola in Ward No. 4. The Metropolitan City expects the system to help alert the surrounding wards of these two rivers.
When the river water level rises, the bell rings, which helps people stay alert and take necessary precautions. The Metropolitan leadership has hinted at installing similar systems in other areas if necessary.
According to the Disaster Management Division, the bell can be heard up to two kilometres away. The Metropolitan is also preparing to install mechanisms to inform the municipal police and other stakeholders about flood conditions.
Lalitpur Metropolitan City has managed the necessary workforce and materials under one roof for disaster management. At the municipal police headquarters in Pulchowk, the city has arranged municipal police, fire engines, hearses, and boats. Other essential materials for use during disasters are also kept there.
The preparations follow an unprecedented loss of lives and property in the heart of the country last year. At least 73 people died in the valley, including Lalitpur, as a result of the flood in mid-October 2024, attracting wide criticism for poor preparation.
Following the shortage of boats during the rescue operation for the devastating flood, the city purchased boats a few months ago. The Metropolitan has also been conducting awareness programs at the ward level to prevent disasters caused by various reasons. Likewise, the Forest, Environment, and Disaster Management Committee of the city is preparing to form ward-level volunteer groups for disaster management and awareness.
