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India claims lack of cooperation from Nepali authorities resulted in flooding in Sunsari; PM to inspect flood-affected areas

The Indian Embassy has claimed that the Nepali administration's failure to cooperate with the Indian technical team working at Saptakoshi embankment caused the inundation in Sunsari, which has left over 35 thousand people displaced and several people missing in the floods.

"The Indian technical team has been in Nepal for last several days to reinforce and strengthen the spurs and the embankment on the Saptkoshi river in consultation with the local administration. However, despite repeated requests and pleas by the technical team for urgent local support in view of the gravity of the situation, the support from local administration had not been forthcoming," a release issued Tuesday evening by the Indian Embassy said, adding, "As a result, the work was frequently hindered, disrupted and delayed."

The statement further said concerns of the Indian technical team and the gravity of the situation were conveyed by the Embassy to the local administration and central authorities on 17th August and their cooperation and support was sought. "At the same time, the Indian technical team was directed to carry out the work on day-and-night basis."

"The Indian technical team mobilised required resources and has remained in readiness to carry out the required work to strengthen the embankment but it was prevented from reaching the site," the Embassy said, "As a consequence, thousands of people in Nepal and India have been forced to suffer a calamity that could have been avoided."

The Embassy also said it is in constant touch with the concerned authorities in Nepal and India and has proposed specific action to contain and close the breach in the embankment.

"While the Indian technical team is ready to undertake protective measures, this will become possible only if it receives necessary cooperation from the Government of Nepal and support from the local people."

The Indian reaction comes amid reports of carelessness on the part of the Indian side which is responsible for operation and maintenance of the Koshi barrage.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal is scheduled to fly to Sunsari to inspect the situation in the flood-affected areas. Leaders of different parties will also join him during the inspection visit.

The PM has also announced Rs 20 million relief aid for the affected families from the Prime Minister's Relief Fund. nepalnews.com mk Aug 19 08