Post-Flood Situation More Complex Than Earthquake; Humanitarian Aid May Take Months

Following the significant loss of life and property caused by the Bhotekoshi flood on September 26, representatives of international agencies have indicated that completing the ongoing humanitarian assistance efforts could take several months. According to Riaz Lodhi, the National Director of the World Food Programme (WFP) Nepal, this relief operation is even more complex than the post-earthquake response in the past. At least 10,000 people across many affected districts, including Rasuwa, Nuwakot, and Dhading, require immediate support.

The urgent needs of people in the flood-affected areas include medical care, psychosocial services, shelter, and food assistance. The government is actively working to meet these needs. While relief materials are staged in trucks waiting in some areas, aid is being delivered by air to certain parts of Rasuwa. The World Food Programme is distributing food aid and advancing relief efforts according to the extent of damage.

During the initial days of humanitarian aid, the World Food Programme distributed high-energy fortified biscuits, followed by pulses, fortified rice, and cooking oil. Supporting the government and other partners, WFP is also paying close attention to accessibility issues. Having provided assistance in Nepal’s post-earthquake situation 72 years ago, the WFP notes that the current relief effort appears even more complicated.

It is difficult to predict the exact duration required to complete the relief operations. The threat of flooding remains, and many have lost their homes, land, food supplies, and other assets. The process will take considerable time — potentially several months. Emergency assistance alone could extend for about six months, after which the reconstruction and recovery phase will commence.