Kathmandu. KATHMANDU: The Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers has urged one and all to adopt high alertness based on the forecast issued by the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology, which is likely to increase risk of flood and landslide following heavy rainfall in different parts of the country until October 3.

Heavy to very heavy rainfall has been predicted at some places of Koshi, Madhes, Bagmati, Gandaki and Lumbini provinces, as monsoon will become active in these provinces, the Office said in a press statement on Friday. It has warned that the water level in the rivers and streams will rise suddenly and there is a possibility of flood, landslide, inundation, erosion and soil erosion.

The Tarai, Narayani, Bagmati, Koshi and Karnali rivers in Madhes Province, as well as districts in the Kathmandu Valley and eastern Terai region are at high risk. Kathmandu Valley, Kavre, Sindhupalchowk, Rasuwa, Chitwan and Koshi Province are at high risk of flooding, Sankhuwasabha, Taplejung, Ilam, Jhapa and Morang districts are at risk of the virus. Similarly, Bara, Parsa, Rautahat, Sarlahi and surrounding districts of Madhes Province are at high risk.

The office has urged pregnant women, children, elderly and people with disabilities to be shifted to safer places. Likewise, local-level, disaster management committee, security personnel, volunteers and stakeholders have been directed to remain prepared for preparedness and rescue efforts.

“All should play a role in raising awareness and preparedness to the highest level so that the loss of life and property from rain and flood and landslide incidents can be minimized,” the statement reads. ’