KATHMANDU: Residents of Sardikhola in Machhapuchhre Rural Municipality-2, Kaski, have donated Rs 793,775 to support victims of the Bhote Koshi floods.
The funds were raised through a campaign initiated by the ward office to assist with the relief, rescue, and rehabilitation of those affected by the floods that occurred on Aug. 26. The collected amount has been deposited into the Prime Minister’s Disaster Relief Fund.
The residents of Sardikhola previously experienced a devastating flood in the Seti River on May 5, 2012. An avalanche from Annapurna IV triggered a flash flood that destroyed the Kharpani market, resulting in the deaths of over 70 people. Recalling that tragedy, the locals contributed to the Bhote Koshi victims based on their own capacity.
Ward Chairman Ganesh Acharya stated that the relief campaign involved 17 local development committees, mothers’ groups, women’s groups, and various local citizens. Acharya said, ‘We have seen and experienced the pain of floods with our own eyes. Therefore, the citizens here understand the suffering of those affected by disasters in Bhote Koshi and other districts.’
The funds were handed over to the Prime Minister’s Disaster Relief Fund through Govinda Acharya, CEO of the Sardikhola Savings and Credit Cooperative, and treasurer Bipul Sharma. The cooperative has confirmed that the money has been deposited into the fund. Govinda Acharya remarked that despite the geographical distance, the pain caused by disasters is shared. He added, ‘This support is not just for the current disaster, but also a message on how communities should stand by each other during times of crisis. It will inspire the new generation to help whenever a disaster strikes anywhere in the country.’
The ward office has announced that it will maintain a record of all individuals, committees, and organizations that contributed to the relief efforts.
