Energy Ministry Introduces 6-Point New Concept for Safety of Development Projects, from Mandatory Insurance to Tunnel Reconstruction
The Ministry of Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation has introduced a 6-point new concept for the safety of development projects. After the recent flood in the Bhote Koshi River in Rasuwa caused massive damage to hydropower projects, the ministry has advanced policy arrangements including mandatory insurance, safety officers, rescue training, emergency plans, minimum requirement lists, and tunnel reconstruction.
Kathmandu. The Ministry of Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation has introduced a 6-point new concept for the safety of development projects. After the recent flood in the Bhote Koshi River in Rasuwa caused massive damage and a security crisis for hydropower projects, the ministry has engaged in preparatory safety measures for projects.
According to Energy Minister Biraj Bhakta Shrestha, the ministry has advanced important policy arrangements to make the construction, safety, and management of various projects across the country more effective. The ministry has begun preparations to implement the new concept to minimize potential risks at project sites and ensure the safety of workers.
According to ministry spokesperson Mohan Kumar Shaky, a 6-point safety concept has been prepared. It proposes measures ranging from mandatory insurance to tunnel reconstruction.
- Mandatory Hull Insurance: From now on, every project must mandatorily carry hull or structural insurance.
- One Project, One Safety Officer: To strictly enforce safety standards at project sites, the concept of 'One Project, One Safety Officer' has been introduced.
- Mandatory Rescue Training: To immediately move to safe locations and prevent human casualties during any emergency or disaster, regular rescue training will now be conducted at project sites.
- Emergency Plan: Under this, a clear emergency plan will be prepared and implemented to deal with potential crises, accidents, or natural disasters.
- Minimum Requirement List (MRL) at Power House: Now, at least 30 days' worth of food and essential supplies must be mandatorily stored in the power house area by creating and implementing a 'Minimum Requirement List'.
- Tunnel Reconstruction: Considering the safety and stability of tunnels, serious discussions and consultations on reconstructing tunnels are being intensified.
The ministry stated that these new standards and concepts will strengthen the safety of project physical assets and workers, as well as enable projects to face any disaster or emergency situation.