KATHMANDU: Expressing deep sorrow over the loss of lives and property caused by floods and landslides along the Trishuli River, the Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) has announced a relief package worth Rs 50 million for affected communities.
A delegation led by NRNA founding president Dr Upendra Mahato and central vice-president Rosina Pradhan Rai visited several affected areas, including Battar and Trishuli Bazaar in Nuwakot, and distributed relief materials to victims.
During the field inspection, Dr Mahato said the scale of the devastation was far worse than what had been portrayed in the media and on social media.
“The damage is many times greater than we had imagined, and it is difficult to describe in words,” he said. “This is a critical period for rescue and relief, so we have brought essential supplies including food, clothing, medicines and tents.”
Dr Mahato said the association would distribute relief worth Rs 50 million in the first phase. It would then coordinate with the Government of Nepal to discuss the role of non-resident Nepalis in rehabilitation and reconstruction efforts.
NRNA central vice-president Rosina Pradhan Rai said Nepalis living abroad were deeply distressed by the disaster and that supporting the victims was a collective responsibility.
“Just yesterday, we held an emergency meeting and announced a Rs 50 million relief package. Today, we have arrived at the affected sites with UN-standard tents, food, medicines and other essential supplies,” she said.
According to Rai, the association will coordinate with the local administration, offices of the chief district officers and local governments to ensure that relief distribution is effective and reaches those most in need.
Recalling NRNA’s active involvement during previous disasters, including the earthquakes and the COVID-19 pandemic, Rai said the association would continue to work with the government in the rehabilitation and reconstruction of the affected areas.
Security agencies, including the Nepali Army, are continuing search operations for missing people and rescue efforts for the injured in the affected areas.
The NRNA delegation also plans to visit affected areas in other districts following its relief distribution efforts in Nuwakot.
