LWF distributes food parcels in the Kathmandu valley. Photo: LWF/ D. Lamsal
Food and water distributions started
(LWI)—The Lutheran World Federation (LWF) in Nepal has started responding to the flood emergency in the Kathmandu Valley and Eastern Nepal.
“The people affected by the floods urgently need shelter, food, safe drinking water, and hygiene materials. There is a risk of waterborne diseases spreading,” LWF Country Director Bajracharya elaborates.
Above-average monsoon rains in the last week of September caused flash floods and landslides in Nepal’s Kathmandu valley. Settlements in 23 districts were affected by overflowing rivers. The Bagmati River flooded parts of Kathmandu.
On October 5, 2024, government sources reported 244 people dead and 19 missing. Over 17,000 people were affected, and their homes were destroyed or damaged. The flooding has also affected large parts of Eastern Nepal. The army rescued thousands with helicopters, but damaged and blocked roads hindered access to communities and relief efforts. Floods and landslides have caused significant damage to houses, roads, bridges, hospitals, schools, and other infrastructure.
Donations needed
The LWF Nepal team has begun distributing food and clothing to some of the most affected communities. On the first day of the disaster, they distributed biscuits, other ready-to-eat food, and water to 150 people in Balkhu, Kathmandu. They also gave food and clothing to children at the Ratne Chauri transitional shelter in Belaka Municipality, Udayapur. On September 30 and October 1, LWF distributed a full meal of traditional lentils, vegetables, and rice (daal bhat) to 2,500 people in Kathmandu.
“We are identifying the needs and gaps and provide hygiene supplies, especially for women and children (dignity kits) and clothing to the most vulnerable households in Kathmandu and Lalitpur”, says Dr. Bijaya Bajracharya, LWF Country Director in Nepal.
LWF Nepal is asking for donations.
