Former Prime Minister Oli Slams Government's 'Ineffective' Rasuwa Flood Response, Citing Lack of Coordination and Private Sector Restrictions

Kathmandu, Nepal – Former Prime Minister and Chairman of the CPN-UML, KP Sharma Oli, has launched a scathing critique against the current government's handling of the devastating floods in Rasuwa, accusing it of failing to conduct effective search, rescue, and relief operations. Speaking at the party's central office in Chyasal on Monday, where he received a NPR 1 million cheque from the CPN-UML Kathmandu Province Committee for flood victims, Oli expressed profound dissatisfaction with the state's disaster response mechanisms.

Oli's remarks underscored a growing public concern over the government's perceived sluggishness and lack of strategic coordination in the face of the recent natural calamity. He specifically targeted ministers and members of parliament from the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), alleging that some officials were merely "scolding citizens and returning," while others were issuing "baseless instructions" or, worse, "creating additional problems on top of existing ones." This direct criticism highlights a deepening political rift over disaster management, a critical area impacting public trust and national stability.

A central point of Oli's grievance was the perceived absence of the central government during this crisis. "The situation has come to a point where we have to search for the central government," Oli stated, questioning its visibility and proactive engagement. He further lamented that while the government is occasionally "seen flying in helicopters," its efforts appear superficial, focusing only on easily accessible areas like rescuing individuals from rooftops after floodwaters recede. This observation suggests a disconnect between high-level visibility and tangible, on-the-ground impact.

Adding to his criticism, Oli expressed strong disapproval of the government's alleged prohibition on the use of private sector helicopters for rescue operations. He argued that Nepal possesses trained personnel and well-equipped private helicopters eager to assist in rescue efforts. "If private helicopters were allowed to operate, and those trained in rescue were permitted to work, they could have accomplished much more," Oli asserted, implying that bureaucratic hurdles are actively hindering crucial life-saving missions. He emphasized that complex rescue scenarios, such as those in tunnels or other high-risk zones, cannot be effectively managed solely by helicopter, necessitating a broader, more collaborative approach involving all available resources.

Furthermore, Oli highlighted the plight of affected families, stating that the government has even prevented locals from searching for their missing relatives. This restriction, if true, represents a significant barrier to community-led recovery efforts and could exacerbate the emotional toll on victims. In contrast, Oli claimed that CPN-UML leaders, cadres, and local and provincial representatives are actively engaged on the ground, working tirelessly to provide support and relief to those affected. This statement positions the CPN-UML as a more responsive and empathetic force in contrast to the government's perceived shortcomings.

The former Prime Minister's strong condemnation brings to light critical issues in Nepal's disaster preparedness and response framework. It underscores the need for transparent, efficient, and inclusive strategies that leverage both state and private sector capabilities. For investors, such political discourse, especially concerning governance and national stability during crises, can be a barometer of the country's operational environment and its capacity to manage unforeseen challenges, potentially influencing long-term economic outlooks and investment confidence. The effectiveness of disaster response is not just a humanitarian issue but also a significant indicator of a government's administrative capacity and its ability to protect national assets and human capital, which are foundational to economic resilience.