KATHMANDU, April 29: The Nepali Army has clarified that details of squatter settlements were requested as part of disaster preparedness efforts.
Issuing a press statement on Wednesday, Army Headquarters said the data collection was aimed at minimizing human and physical losses that could occur during the monsoon season due to floods, landslides, inundation and river erosion.
11 licensed firearms submitted in Chitwan
The national army stated that, as in previous years, it has been coordinating with relevant agencies to gather information and prepare for potential disaster incidents during the rainy season.
According to the statement, the clarification was issued after information regarding the army’s request for squatter settlement details circulated on social media and in some media outlets.
The army noted that its local units have been collecting updated information on settlements located in vulnerable areas.
“Local units of the Nepali Army have been updating data in their respective areas to map potential risks and facilitate the deployment of security forces for rescue, relief distribution and rehabilitation during possible disaster incidents,” the statement said.
