Oct 12, Kathmandu - CPN-UML Chair KP Sharma Oli has sharply criticized the government, accusing it of failing to manage disasters and respond effectively to flooding along the Budhi Gandaki River in Gorkha.

Speaking at a party gathering on Sunday as part of the “Mission Awakening” campaign, Oli said the government had shown “a narrow mindset” during a national emergency and alleged that state resources were misused.

He criticized the use of government helicopters during rescue operations, saying they appeared to be treated like private property or an opportunity for people to take a helicopter ride. Oli also cited earlier floods on the Bhotekoshi and Trishuli rivers, alleging that helicopter use had been mismanaged and relief and rescue efforts were delayed.

Oli said the government had failed to bring stakeholders together, including by not forming an all-party committee. He also claimed that delays in accepting and using international assistance had hindered rescue efforts and may have contributed to deaths.

Urging party members not to wait for the government alone, Oli called on UML leaders and cadres to join rescue and relief operations for those affected by the Budhi Gandaki flooding, and to support reconstruction and rehabilitation as needed.

He said the flooding had swept away homes, left people missing and caused significant damage.