Kathmandu: Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) lawmaker Indira Rana Magar has urged the government to give special attention to the physical and mental health of people affected by floods and other disasters, particularly in Rasuwa and surrounding areas.
Speaking at Tuesday’s meeting of the House of Representatives, Rana Magar said many disaster victims are struggling with not only physical health problems but also serious mental health challenges following the floods.
Rana Magar said she had personally participated in rescue efforts involving children and women in Bidur Municipality of Nuwakot. According to her, some of those rescued were found to have physical health problems, while many were experiencing psychological distress.
She also pointed out the lack of adequate hospitals and rehabilitation centers equipped to provide mental health treatment and post-disaster rehabilitation.
While people who are financially capable may be able to seek treatment from private healthcare providers, she said poor and vulnerable families often struggle to access necessary medical and psychological care.
Rana Magar stressed that citizens who have lost all their property in the disaster should not be forced to bear the additional burden of medical expenses themselves.
She suggested that when flood victims are referred to different hospitals for treatment, the concerned local government or ward offices should facilitate the necessary documents and identification so that victims can access healthcare without unnecessary difficulties.
She further called on the government to cover the cost of further treatment for disaster-affected citizens.
Rana Magar emphasized that ensuring the basic needs of flood victims is a responsibility of the state and urged the government to act with greater sensitivity and urgency during times of disaster.
