Himal Press 
KATHMANDU: The Nepali Congress (NC) has recommended that the government empower provincial and local authorities to lead relief and rehabilitation efforts in earthquake-affected areas in Jajarkot and Rukum West districts of Karnali Province.
During a meeting with Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal on Tuesday, the NC proposed that the federal government play a facilitating and monitoring role and allow subordinate governments to lead relief and rehabilitation works. The party further recommended that the District Security Mechanism take a central role in coordinating all levels of government, the disaster management authority, donor agencies, and the private sector to distribute tents, food, medicine, and other essential supplies to earthquake survivors through a one-window system.
NC President Sher Bahadur Deuba, general secretaries Gagan Kumar Thapa and Bishwo Prakash Sharma and other leaders were in the NC delegation that met Prime Minister Dahal.
In addition, the NC suggested forming provincial-level disaster relief funds and authorizing them to receive support from interested groups, organizations, and individuals. The party also urged the government to set up mobile medical camps to treat individuals injured in the earthquakes, as those living in open areas are susceptible to developing coughs, colds, and pneumonia. The federal government should thus provide support to provincial authorities by ensuring necessary equipment, workforce, and logistical support at local health facilities, the party demanded.
The NC further called on the government to instruct the provincial planning commission to collaborate with local governments and collect data on earthquake-induced losses within three weeks, to aid in the rebuilding and rehabilitation process.
To expedite the rehabilitation of earthquake survivors, NC has recommended deploying essential staff to affected areas for a year, filling vacant positions, and involving former bureaucrats, if necessary.
