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Flood toll reaches 86; UN appeals for unhindered access to rescuers

The number of persons killed by floods and landslides this monsoon has reached 86, according to the Home Ministry.

The Ministry has informed that around 180,000 persons have been affected by the floods and landslides in various parts of the country.

The Home Ministry officials have said that the government is carrying out relief efforts in earnest manner. This monsoon most of Terai districts have been affected by floods. Districts like Banke, Bardiya, Mahottari, Dhanusha, Rautahat, Jhapa, Sarlahi, Saptari were the worst affected.

Meanwhile, on Wednesday, two persons were swept away by flood in Jhapa district. A 40-year-old lady Upasana Magar and 5-year-old girl Reena Deuja have been swept away by the Bhuteni khola.

The government is launching relief and rescue efforts by mobilising security personnel. Likewise, NGOs including Nepal Red Cross Society are also in the forefront in rescue/relief operations.

Meanwhile, the UN office in Kathmandu has appealed for unhindered and safe access to flood-affected populations. “Due to the recent flooding in the Terai it is essential that humanitarian organisations responding to the crisis are provided unhindered and safe access to flood-affected populations,” said a statement by the UN on Wednesday.

The UN estimates that as many as 230,000 people may have been affected by flooding and landslides across Nepal. “Numerous organisations and UN agencies are supporting national efforts to address immediate food, shelter, water and health needs. The UN Humanitarian Coordinator appeals to all groups in the Terai to allow all humanitarian organisations safe and unhindered access to affected populations for the effective assessment and delivery of essential humanitarian relief.” nepalnews.com sd Aug 01 07