KATHMANDU: Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has pledged to work at a war-footing level to resolve the scarcity of drinking water and irrigation in the Tarai-Madhes region.

Responding to questions raised by lawmakers during Wednesday’s meeting of the House of Representatives, PM Oli informed that the Cabinet, in its meeting held the same day, has declared Madhes Province a natural disaster-affected area.

He affirmed the government’s full commitment to ensuring the availability of drinking water and irrigation facilities in the region.

“This government is determined to tackle the challenges facing the nation. Our resolve is to move ahead with stability and continuity. While the hilly regions are facing rain and floods, Tarai-Madhes is suffering from drought. The government has taken necessary steps to address these issues,” said PM Oli.

“Following the declaration of a natural disaster, it will now be easier to mobilize resources or conduct deep boring for water. The government is serious about this. We must now work towards both short-term and long-term solutions, and the government will leave no stone unturned in doing so,” he added.