KATHMANDU: The Nepal Army has clarified that its recent collection of data related to squatters is part of broader disaster preparedness efforts as the monsoon season approaches.

According to the Directorate of Public Relations and Information at Army Headquarters, the exercise is aimed at strengthening planning for rescue, relief distribution, and rehabilitation during potential disasters.

The Army said it has intensified preparations to reduce risks from floods, landslides, inundation, and river erosion, taking into account past disaster incidents. It added that coordination and cooperation with concerned agencies are ongoing as part of the preparedness plan.

Addressing concerns raised on social media and in news reports regarding requests for “squatter details,” the Army said the exercise is linked to hazard mapping and updating of data to ensure more effective disaster response operations.

Local units, it said, have been kept on standby with necessary security forces prepared for mobilization based on risk assessments within their respective areas.