Lawmakers Call for Diplomatic Action and Better Cross-Border Coordination to Prepare for Disasters

 Kathmandu, July 9 — Lawmakers in the House of Representatives have expressed sorrow over the loss of lives and property caused by Tuesday night’s devastating flood along the Nepal–China border in Rasuwa.

They urged the government to take diplomatic steps to address the increasing risk of cross-border disasters, especially those originating in the mountains of China. Several MPs highlighted the need for better information-sharing and cooperation with China to prepare for potential future emergencies.

MPs Rajendra Bajgain, Madhav Prasad Sapkota, and Sher Bahadur Kunwar raised concerns over the destruction caused by the Lhende Stream—which flows into the Bhotekoshi River—stressing the urgency of enhancing rescue operations for those still missing.

Separately, MP Narayan Prasad Acharya brought attention to a tragic accident on the Siddhartha Highway, where a falling rock struck a motorcycle traveling from Butwal to Palpa, killing one person and injuring another. He urged the government to introduce safety measures on high-risk roads.

Former Foreign Minister Narayan Prakash Saud highlighted the shortage of fertilizers and seeds in the country, noting that over 60% of Nepal’s population depends on agriculture. He recommended the establishment of a domestic fertilizer plant to reduce dependence on imports.

MP Ranendra Baraili addressed the ongoing protest by gold and silver dealers following the imposition of a luxury tax. He noted that the added taxes—including customs duties and dealer margins—have pushed up prices for consumers by 43%. He called for negotiations to resolve the issue.

Meanwhile, MP Shanti BK dismissed allegations that some Nepalis who accompanied the Prime Minister to a recent UN event in Spain failed to return, calling the claims baseless.

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