Karnali insures 16,000 houses in disaster-prone areas

SURKHET: The Karnali Province Government has insured 16,000 houses in disaster-prone areas of 213 wards across 15 local units.

Realizing that the province is prone to natural disasters,  the Karnali Provincial had introduced the house insurance program in its annual policy and program, as well as the budget for the fiscal year 2024/25. Provincial government officials say the program will ensure financial security against losses and damages caused by natural calamities and other unforeseen events.

According to the ministry, the House Insurance Program Procedure, 2024, was approved by the provincial cabinet in February.

Internal Affairs Secretary Pushpa Raj Shahi said that 23 local units from 10 districts of the province had applied to participate in the program. “House insurance policies have been issued for 16,072 homes in 15 local units in the phase. People who submitted details with the recommendation of the respective local units within the stipulated timeframe have been insured in the first phase,” Shahi said.

Shahi added that the provincial government will cover the premium for a maximum of Rs 2 million per house. He added that a total of Rs 9,824,893 has been paid as premium for these houses.

Chief Minister Yam Lal Kandel said the house insurance program was initiated to protect people’s property. Highlighting the need for effective implementation of agricultural and livestock insurance programs in the province, similar to house insurance, Kandel urged local units to take the lead in adopting security measures through insurance programs rather than waiting for government compensation after damage. “A small amount of money can secure people’s homes. Instead of seeking government assistance after damage, you should also spread awareness about getting insurance with a small amount,” he added.