Misusing Nepal earthquake funds will attract legal action: PM Sushil Koirala

Koirala asked the citizens to inform the government about misuse of the relief aid, black marketing and hoarding for urgent legal action.

Nepalese Prime Minister Sushil Koirala today warned people of stern action if they were found misusing quake relief funds.

“I am committed to allow government authorities to take legal action to those taking illegal benefit in this time of crisis”, said Koirala.

He asked the citizens to inform the government about misuse of the relief aid, black marketing and hoarding for urgent legal action.

Nepal is grappling with large-scale rehabilitation and reconstruction after the April 25 monster temblor flattened buildings, uprooted electric trees and brought down trees besides killing nearly 9,000 people.

A total of 247 aftershocks with 4 or more magnitude have also kept people on edge, who have been forced to stay in the open despite the monsoon season just days away.

Two mild aftershocks were felt near Kathmandu this morning, with a 4-magnitude aftershock recorded at 11.29 pm and epicentre at Sindhupalchowk district, 85 km east of Kathmandu, and another 4.3-magnitude recorded at 4.34 am and epicentre at Dolakha district.

The intensity of the aftershocks have gradually decreased after the 7.3-magnitude tremor that jolted the nation on the afternoon of May 12.

Meanwhile, the government has decided to utilise public land for the rehabilitation of the earthquake victims.

Minister for Industry Mahesh Basnet told reporters that with rescue and relief works coming to a final stage, the government is now focusing on the rehabilitation, reinstatement and reconstruction works.

“Rehabilitation is the most essential work at this time around and the time now is to muster mettle through transformation of grief,” he said.

Source:: Indian Express