Over 1.8 Million People Likely to Be Affected by Monsoon This Year

More than 1.8 million people are expected to be affected by the monsoon this year, according to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA). The forecast comes amid expectations of increased rainfall this season.

In a statement released on Monday, NDRRMA Spokesperson Dr. Disan Bhattarai indicated that the monsoon’s impact could extend to over 412,000 households. “It is estimated that more than 1.8 million people from these households will be affected in various ways during the monsoon,” Dr. Bhattarai said.

The NDRRMA’s projections suggest that around 83,000 families might face direct impacts, necessitating the rescue and relief of approximately 18,000 households. Last year, while an estimated 1.2 million people were expected to be affected, the actual number surpassed two million.

The Department of Meteorology and Hydrology has already forecasted that this year’s rainfall could be 35-55% above the average. This significant increase in expected precipitation has prompted early preparations.

Dr. Bhattarai assured that all relevant agencies have been instructed to make the necessary preparations, considering the heightened risk this year. These efforts are being coordinated under the Monsoon Preparedness and Response National Action Plan, developed by the Home Ministry.

As the monsoon approaches, the NDRRMA emphasizes the importance of readiness to mitigate the potential impacts on vulnerable populations and infrastructure.