First Karnali Province Monsoon Forum 2026 Concludes

Surkhet. The 'First Karnali Province Monsoon Forum 2026' concerning the prediction, preparedness, and response to potential risks of monsoon-induced disasters has concluded. The forum was held on Tuesday in Birendranagar, Surkhet, in collaboration with the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology, Surkhet, and the People in Need (PIN) Commitment-3 Project. In the forum, Karnali Province Chief Secretary Birendrakumar Yadav stated that since 30 local levels in Karnali still lack weather measurement centers, the provincial government will assist with the necessary equipment for their management. Chief of the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology, Surkhet, Dr. Indira Kandel, presented on the role of the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology and its subordinate offices in reducing and managing risks of hydrological and meteorological disasters, and the climate assessment for the monsoon season 2083. Ujjwal Adhikari, Karnali Province Coordinator of the People in Need (PIN) Commitment-3 Project (PIN), presenting on monsoon preparedness and potential impacts, stated that 59,868 households, comprising 226,661 people, will be affected by monsoon-induced disasters nationwide in 2083. He said, 'It is estimated that 51.10 percent women and 48.90 percent men will be affected by monsoon-induced disasters. This includes 21 percent elderly, eight percent children, 2.5 percent persons with disabilities, and two percent women of reproductive age.' The data indicates that Lumbini will be most affected with 51,626 people, while Karnali will be least affected with 13,175 people. The forum was attended by Social Development Ministry Secretary Roshnikumari Shrestha, Physical Secretary Arjun-kumar Bam, Industry and Tourism Secretary Ajitkumar Karnal, and heads and representatives from the Provincial and District Emergency Operation Centers, thematic areas, development partners, and other sectors.