Experts warn of health risks as temperatures continue to rise

 Kathmandu, June 12

Experts are warning about the growing dangers of extreme heat as temperatures continue to rise, and they are urging the government to take action with proper policies and strategies.

At an event held in Kathmandu on Thursday by the Nepal Red Cross Society and the International Red Cross, UN-Habitat representative Pragya Pradhan said more attention needs to be given to people affected by heatwaves. "Until recently, this issue wasn’t taken seriously," she said, adding that systems for relief and medical care must be put in place to deal with serious heat-related health problems.

Dr. Prakash Budhathoki, Joint Secretary at the Ministry of Health and Population, said the government would only declare a heatwave emergency if a large number of people are affected. He also mentioned that steps like early warning systems would be introduced as needed.

Dinesh Prasad Bhatta, head of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority, said the government is working on a detailed plan to deal with heat-related disasters. This includes launching public awareness campaigns, setting up cooling centers, and providing drinking water to help people cope with extreme heat.

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