In the aftermath of devastating floods and landslides, Nepal’s Prime Minister Disaster Relief Fund has seen increased contributions, including substantial aid from neighboring India. On Saturday, three major institutions—Oriental Insurance Company Ltd from India, LIC Nepal Ltd, and Nepal SBI Bank Ltd- pledged further support to assist the victims. This aid marks a deepening of regional solidarity and cooperation during times of crisis, as the death toll from the rain-induced disaster continues to rise.
Indian Companies Extend Support to Nepal’s Relief Efforts
The Embassy of India in Kathmandu shared a post on X (formerly Twitter) confirming the contributions, stating, “LIC Nepal Ltd, Nepal SBI Bank Ltd, and the Oriental Insurance Company Ltd India contributed to Nepal PM Disaster Relief Fund to support victims of the recent floods and landslides in Nepal.”
The donations are part of a wider relief initiative to aid the thousands of people affected by the relentless rains that have ravaged the country since late September. The disaster has displaced numerous families, causing extensive damage to infrastructure and property, and taking a severe toll on human lives.
The heavy rains triggered catastrophic landslides and floods across several districts in Nepal, particularly affecting the regions of Bagmati and Koshi. According to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority, warnings of further heavy rainfall have been issued, urging citizens to exercise caution while traveling through affected areas. The Armed Police Force (APF) reports that 241 lives have been lost, with 29 individuals still missing.
India Pledges Further Assistance, Reaffirms Solidarity with Nepal
Indian Ambassador to Nepal, Naveen Srivastava, expressed his condolences on behalf of the Indian government, sharing a message of unity and compassion during Nepal’s ongoing struggle with natural calamities. “I convey on our behalf and the Government of India, sincere condolences for the recent floods that have caused tremendous loss of lives and damage to the property,” Srivastava stated.
As a gesture of friendship and solidarity, Srivastava conveyed Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s message to Nepal’s Prime Minister, KP Sharma Oli, pledging India’s ongoing support for relief and reconstruction efforts in the aftermath of the disaster.
“India stands in solidarity with the people of Nepal at this difficult time,” Srivastava relayed, “We are also ready to extend all possible assistance as required by the Government of Nepal for its relief and reconstruction efforts. We look forward, as in the past, to further cooperation in these efforts for our people.”
India’s longstanding relationship with Nepal has often involved mutual support during times of natural disasters. Following the 2015 Nepal earthquake, India played a significant role in helping with relief efforts, and the recent disaster response further solidifies the collaborative spirit between the two nations.
Rising Death Toll and Warnings of Further Danger
As rescue and recovery efforts continue, Nepal remains on high alert. The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority has urged people living in flood-prone and landslide-prone areas to remain vigilant and take precautions. The authority warned that while the rains have eased, the possibility of heavy rainfall persists in Bagmati, Koshi, and other vulnerable regions.
The disaster, which began last week, has already claimed 241 lives, according to the Armed Police Force (APF). Many of the victims were caught in sudden landslides triggered by intense rainfall, while others were swept away by swollen rivers. Rescue teams continue to search for the 29 individuals who are still missing, with hopes dwindling for their safe recovery.
The response efforts are being coordinated by the Nepalese government with the assistance of local authorities and international organizations, including those from India.
Helicopters have been deployed to rescue people stranded in remote areas, while makeshift shelters have been set up for displaced families.
The challenge, however, lies in reaching some of the hardest-hit regions. Many roads have been blocked by landslides, and the flooding has made several areas inaccessible. Despite these obstacles, both the government and relief agencies remain committed to providing aid to those in need.
As Nepal continues to battle the consequences of the recent floods and landslides, the international community, particularly India, has stepped up to provide critical support.
With contributions flowing into the Prime Minister’s Disaster Relief Fund and India’s offer of assistance for reconstruction, there is hope that Nepal will soon be able to begin the process of rebuilding.
However, with weather authorities warning of more rain, the immediate focus remains on saving lives and preventing further casualties.
The devastation has been widespread, but the collective response from neighboring countries and international donors offers a glimmer of hope for the recovery process. For now, Nepal’s resilience, combined with the support of its allies, will be key to overcoming the ongoing crisis.