Updates from Nepal provided by The Presbyterian Church in Canada’s partner, United Mission to Nepal (UMN), confirmed the devastation caused by flooding that has affected parts of the country’s centre. Thousands of people have been affected by the loss of homes, livelihoods and essential services. Roads, bridges, electricity and communications infrastructure have suffered extensive damage, making access to some communities extremely difficult. Schools have also been badly affected, particularly in Rasuwa and Nuwakot. The flood was caused by a massive surge of water, claiming lives and leaving significant destruction in its path. UMN Funding Management Team Leader Bibhu Singh wrote that the “exact cause of the flood has not yet been confirmed.”
UMN has convened an Incident Management Team to review the situation. While UMN is not currently operating in the affected areas, they will be working with partners to respond to the disaster in Dhading and Nuwakot. Their Immediate response will be to support approximately 1,000 affected families with essential food and non-food relief items, based on needs identified through rapid assessment.
PWS&D, the PCC’s relief and development agency, shared an update from the International Nepal Fellowship (INF), which notes that, while 95 deaths have been reported so far, all figures are provisional because this is an active emergency. According to the Nepal Tourism Board’s Tracing List, many Nepalis and other people are thought to be missing as a result of the flood. “This reflects a loss of contact amid major telecom disruption and must not be presented as flood casualties.”
Bibhu Singh (UMN) has asked that people lift up Nepal in prayer. “Please remember those still waiting to be rescued, families grieving the loss of loved ones, those anxiously awaiting news of people they cannot reach, those who are injured or have lost their homes and livelihoods, and the many people working tirelessly in rescue and relief efforts. Please also pray for wisdom and protection for our staff and partners as they travel to the affected areas and begin the assessment. At times like this, we are especially grateful to know that friends and partners around the world are standing with us and with the people of Nepal.”
The PCC’s mission staff in Nepal have not been affected by the flooding. Read the latest post from PCC staff Lora Nafziger .
PWS&D is accepting donations for Nepal relief here. Under “Designation”, choose Nepal Flood Relief.