Government Declares National Mourning for Flood Victims

The government has decided to observe Bhadra 22 as a national day of mourning in memory of those who lost their lives in the devastating floods in Rasuwa’s Bhotekoshi area. Government offices across the country and Nepali diplomatic missions abroad will fly the national flag at half-mast on the day. The Cabinet also decided to observe Bhadra 23 as ‘Gen Z Martyrs’ Day’ with a nationwide public holiday. Among other decisions, the government agreed to accept a US$5 million emergency grant from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) for rescue and relief operations. Special tax, customs and relief facilities will be provided to flood-affected businesses under an integrated business recovery plan. Security personnel and employees involved in search and rescue will receive risk allowances, meal expenses and free medical treatment, while families of those who die in the field will receive Rs. 1 million in relief. The government also approved the import of 25,000 metric tons of sugar through Salt Trading Corporation and Food Management and Trading Company at a 1% customs duty. Narayan Prasad Bhatt has also been promoted to secretary and appointed as the Chief Secretary of Koshi Province.