STEP UP
The Kathmandu Post
22 May 2015
STEP UP
The ongoing diplomatic pressure applied by the
Nepal government to the donor community to deposit its financial support for
the post-quake programme in the Prime Minister’s Relief Fund (PMRF) seems to be
hard for the latter to digest, considering the government’s transparency and
accountability record as mentioned by Sophia K Tamot in her article (“In
whom we trust” 19 May, Page 6). I personally do not see any problem in
channelling such funds through one-window system so that they are not
haphazardly used in the name of relief, rehabilitation and reconstruction. However,
there has been growing concern of the proper utilization of funds, considering
the government’s failure to lead the ongoing rescue and relief-related
activities.
Had there not been other individuals and
organizations involved in the relief, the post-quake situation could have been more
devastating, which would have completely tarnished the government’s image. As
reported by the media, there are already cases of manhandling of local
political leaders for their late visits to affected areas by frustrated victims.
The government’s decision to provide NRs 15000/- in cash, instead of corrugated
zinc sheets to the affected household also seems irresponsible; considering the
inaccessibility of these materials and the remoteness of the affected areas (“Give
them shelter”, May 21, Editorial). The government machinery should have
procured the zinc sheets, transported them and handed over to the affected
people. Monsoon is fast approaching. If the government does not own up to this
responsibility; there will be more human casualties.
Rai Biren Bangdel
Maharajgunj
