In Nepal, a new toll-free helpline launched by the National Reconstruction Authority with UNDP's support is set to connect quake-affected people directly with the government
To enable people around Nepal who were affected by the 2015 earthquake to reach out and connect directly to the government, and air their queries and grievances to do with the reconstruction process, the National Reconstruction Authority (NRA) has just installed a toll-free helpline, with the support of UNDP Nepal. The service was formally launched amidst a programme presided over by NRA’s Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Govinda Raj Pokharel, on 31 May.
The helpline is geared at providing timely, relevant and accurate information regarding safe building practices to house owners and clarifying any confusions to do with adapting the principles of resilient construction in resurrecting their fallen homes. Speaking at the event, CEO Pokharel expressed his hopes that the helpline would not just give people access to better guidance on building techniques, but also make the NRA more accountable to the people, and its policies and strategies “more responsive to their needs”.
In a similar vein, UNDP’s Deputy Country Director in Nepal, Sophie Kemkhadze, said that the new service represented the advent of a two-way communication mechanism, an essential bridge between Nepal’s government and the people. “I trust it will prove instrumental in enabling NRA to facilitate owner-driven reconstruction,” she said.
Kemkhadze added that thorough engagement of various governmental and non-governmental organizations was needed to ensure the service was successful, and raised the possibility of linking it to various other ongoing initiatives, such as the Common Feedback Programme and BBC Media Action, that are directly or indirectly involved in the reconstruction process, so as to create synergy among stakeholders. She further underlined UNDP’s commitment to its collaboration with and support for the NRA in bringing its vision of well-planned resilient settlements and a prosperous society to fruition.
The toll-free number is 1660-01-72000 for NTC users and 9801-572-111 for Ncell users.