The United States has announced an additional USD 31 million to assist Nepal in its flood recovery efforts. This funding aims to bolster humanitarian support, including the construction of permanent bridges and the provision of drones designed for future disaster recovery initiatives. The announcement was made during a meeting in New York between Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs Allison Hooker and Nepal’s Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal.

The US Embassy in Nepal shared this development on X, expressing condolences to the families affected, including the relatives of approximately 70 American citizens currently unaccounted for due to the floods. The embassy highlighted the urgency and scale of the disaster recovery needs in Nepal.

During her discussions with Minister Khanal, Hooker specifically outlined the allocation of funds towards various recovery projects, showing the US commitment to assist Nepal as it addresses the extensive damage caused by recent flooding.

Details of Funding Allocation by the US

Under Secretary Hooker detailed that USD 10 million would be directed towards the development of permanent, custom-built bridges sourced from a US company. The aim of this initiative is to restore vital transportation links within affected regions and enhance overall connectivity.

Additionally, USD 8 million will be allocated for humanitarian efforts, which include provisions for water, sanitation, hygiene, and shelter support for displaced individuals. The financial package also includes support for livelihoods and winterisation efforts, ensuring that communities have the necessary resources during the cold season.

Furthermore, a significant portion of the aid, amounting to USD 13 million, is designated for US-made drones that will aid Nepal in responding to future disaster situations more effectively. This comprehensive aid approach underscores the US’s ongoing commitment to support Nepal through its recovery phase.

Nepal’s Leadership Engaged During UN General Assembly

The announcement of the additional aid coincides with a crucial period for Nepal as Prime Minister Balendra Shah heads to the United States to participate in the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly. He departed Kathmandu on September 23 and is leading an official delegation that includes 14 members.

Prime Minister Shah is scheduled to address the General Assembly on September 24, focusing on prominent issues affecting Nepal, including the pressing climate crisis. His participation aims to amplify Nepal’s key priorities on the international stage, particularly concerning climate justice, access to climate finance, and support for reconstruction efforts.

During his time in New York, he is also expected to meet UN Secretary-General António Guterres to discuss these critical matters. This visit marks Shah’s first international engagement since taking office, reflecting Nepal’s commitment to addressing environmental challenges and seeking international collaboration.

Current Situation in Flood-affected Areas

As reported by Nepal’s National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA), the floods that struck on August 26 have had devastating effects on riverside settlements in Rasuwa district and surrounding areas. To date, there have been 1,451 bodies recovered or rescued related to the flooding events.

Of these, 1,333 bodies are currently housed underground, while 112 were returned to families. Additionally, medical facilities are providing care to a total of 344 patients, with 12 individuals still receiving treatment, and four fatalities reported during their care.

In response to the crisis, 1,134 individuals are currently sheltering in various holding centres across Rasuwa, Nuwakot, and Dhading. As rescue and recovery operations continue, international forensic teams are involved, bringing expertise to the identification of missing persons, further illustrating the collaborative nature of the recovery efforts amid this ongoing challenge.

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