Nepal’s devastating floods have killed at least 903 people, while more than 4,200 remain missing, prompting a major UN-led humanitarian response across the country.
According to UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric, more than 20,000 search-and-rescue personnel have been deployed to areas affected by torrential rains. Nepali authorities have also reported more than 267 injuries, while emergency teams have rescued over 10,000 people, including 252 foreign nationals.
Relief operations are continuing despite serious access difficulties caused by damage to major transport routes, including the Prithvi Highway. Authorities and humanitarian agencies are working to restore essential services, particularly in Rasuwa, which has been identified as the worst-affected district.
The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) and its partners have established a coordination hub in Nuwakot. Eleven emergency medical teams have been deployed, while psychological first aid has been provided to around 400 residents. More than 3,200 dignity kits have also been distributed to vulnerable women and girls.
Food assistance is another major priority. The World Food Programme (WFP) has dispatched 80 tonnes of food supplies intended to support around 9,200 people for 15 days. UNICEF has also delivered ready-to-use therapeutic food for 500 children suffering from severe acute malnutrition.
The UN estimates that around 65,000 people urgently need water, sanitation and hygiene assistance. More than 22,000 children require critical protection services, including around 2,600 infants considered at risk of severe wasting.
Humanitarian agencies are also calling for additional nutritional support for approximately 10,500 pregnant and breastfeeding women. More than 10,000 school-aged children require psychosocial support following the disaster, while authorities are working to trace 107 children separated from their families.
The floods have caused extensive damage to essential infrastructure. At least 19 schools have been damaged, including nine that were completely destroyed. Eight schools are currently being used as emergency shelters for people displaced by the flooding.
