KATHMANDU, May 20: Lawmakers across parties drew the government's attention to issues such as healthcare, disaster management, problems of landless people, road safety and social inclusion during the meeting of the House of Representatives (HoR) held on Wednesday.
Airing her views in the session, Gyanu Paudel stressed that the fundamental right of every citizen to receive healthcare services must be effectively implemented.
She said that access to and easy availability of health services across the country has still not been ensured and noted the shortage of essential health supplies at the 93-year-old Bhim Hospital in Rupandehi. "There is a shortage of anti-rabies vaccines, medicines required for snakebite treatment, and life-saving drugs in the hospital. I urge the government to manage this immediately," said Paudel.
Khadak Bahadur Budha stated that timely management of those affected by natural disasters and real residents is necessary. He urged for the prompt advancement of restoration work for roads, drinking water, and other infrastructure projects damaged by natural disasters.
Dr Arjun Kumar Karki highlighted the need for the government to be serious about the risk of Ebola virus infection. He noted that the World Health Organization (WHO) considers Ebola infection a serious health risk and urged that necessary precautions be taken as Nepal could also be at risk due to Nepali citizens working in African countries where the disease has been spreading.
HoR meeting: lawmakers draw govt attention on various issues
Guru Prasad Baral pointed out the need to arrange permanent settlement for a long-term solution to the squatter problem. He mentioned that citizens living in the holding centre are facing difficulties and urged for immediate proper management.
Sajida Khatun Siddiqi stated that incidents of road accidents are increasing in the country and it is necessary to pay special attention to road safety. She urged the government to make road improvement and safety measures more effective.
Madan Krishna Shrestha highlighted the need for the state to make special arrangements for the protection and care of persons with severe disabilities.
Samina Miya urged to postpone the exams scheduled during the Islamic festival of Bakarid and to make alternative arrangements. She called for the need to respect the country's diversity and cultural sensitivity.
Yashodha Kumari Baral demanded immediate relief arrangements for the affected citizens, stating that the severe flood that hit Chankheli Rural Municipality-5 in Humla district caused extensive damage.
Ramesh Sapkota also stated that the unusual flood in Humla has caused significant damage, but relief materials have not reached the affected areas due to the lack of road access.
He urged for the immediate allocation of the budget to make relief and rescue operations effective and highlighted the need to establish a long-term mechanism for disaster management.
During the urgent time, the issues raised by MPs mainly focused on strengthening healthcare services, disaster management, social security, and ensuring citizens' fundamental rights.
RSS