Kathmandu [Nepal], August 30 – International assistance for Nepal has expanded following the devastating Bhotekoshi floods that caused extensive loss of life and property in Rasuwa, Nuwakot and Dhading districts.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has announced the largest cash contribution among foreign governments pledging US $10 million (around Rs 1.52 billion) for people affected by the floods. The assistance was announced under the direction of UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and will be provided through the UAE Aid Agency.
Other countries and international institutions have also pledged significant support. The World Bank has announced US $ 167 million in concessional loans for flood-affected areas while the Asian Development Bank (ADB) has committed US $5 million in budgetary support and an additional US $1,50,000 in technical assistance.
The US has pledged US $5,00,000 in cash while Australia has announced US $1 million. South Korea has proposed providing US $1 million in humanitarian assistance through international organisations.
China has pledged 30 Bailey bridges and 2,000 air-tight body bags while Switzerland has committed 1 million Swiss francs through the United Nations.
India has so far provided 57.5 tonnes of humanitarian aid and essential medicines in three phases.
Meanwhile, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies has pledged Rs 189.62 million for search, rescue and rehabilitation efforts.
The Nepal government has also received support from several national and international organisations including Oxfam, Save the Children, CARE Nepal, Plan International, Mercy Corps and Handicap International in the form of food, temporary shelters, water and sanitation supplies, health and nutrition assistance, rescue equipment and assistive devices.
The Prime Minister’s Relief fund had collected Rs 4.38 billion in Nepali currency by Friday night through nine commercial banks. An additional US $6,80,618 (around Rs 1.04 billion) had been deposited in accounts at Himalayan Bank and Laxmi Bank.
