NA says data of squatters collected for disaster risk mapping

KATHMANDU: The Nepali Army has maintained that it collected data on landless squatters as part of an effort to update risk mapping for potential disasters.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Army said its local units had sought such details within their respective areas to help deploy security forces more effectively during disasters and to facilitate rescue, relief distribution, and rehabilitation efforts.

The move had drawn criticism on social media and in sections of the media, with questions raised over why the Army was collecting information on squatters.

The Army clarified that it had been working in coordination with relevant agencies to strengthen disaster preparedness, particularly during the monsoon season, when risks from floods, landslides, inundation, and river erosion increase.

“The collection of data is aimed at minimizing human and material losses in the event of such disasters,” it added.