KATHMANDU: In a deeply emotional message, Prime Minister Balendra (Balen) Shah reassured flood-affected senior citizens that the government stands firmly with them during this difficult time, following the dramatic rescue of a 64-year-old woman in Betrawati, Nuwakot.

Reflecting on the miraculous rescue of Chandrika Shrestha by a joint team of the Armed Police Force and Nepal Police, the Prime Minister highlighted the resilience of the nation’s elderly, many of whom risked their lives to carry their grandchildren to safety despite physical infirmity.

“This news gives hope to the entire country and sends a message that our search and rescue efforts remain unrelenting,” PM Shah wrote.

Addressing the profound grief caused by the devastating Bhote Koshi floods—which destroyed homes, swept away livestock, and tragically took the lives of numerous seniors—the Prime Minister outlined the emergency measures currently underway.

Affected elders are being provided with immediate relief, specialized healthcare, wheelchair support, and psychosocial counseling in temporary shelters and holding centers, including relocation facilities at Nepal Senior Care in Kathmandu and Krishna Pranami Temple in Nuwakot.

PM Shah pledged that temporary relief stays would be kept as short as possible, promising a swift transition to safe, permanent housing.

He also delivered a stern warning to anyone exploiting or mocking the grief of victims who lost their families, calling such acts criminal and assuring that the government will take strict action against offenders.

Expressing deep gratitude to the security forces still working tirelessly in hazardous conditions, he urged the nation to remain unified, maintain resilience, and keep faith in the government’s recovery efforts.