ACT News Update

Nepal 02/04

Geneva, July 27, 2004—Lutheran World Federation Nepal, a member of the global alliance Action by Churches Together (ACT) International, reports that the torrential rains that have lashed 24 hill and plains districts in Nepal since the second week of July are exacting a heavy toll.

In a report to the ACT Coordinating Office in Geneva, LWF Nepal writes that "primary information sent by the ACT/LWF rapid assessment team indicates that the intensity of the disaster and ground situation is serious."

LWF Nepal also reports that the numbers of those affected by the floods are increasing and that many have been settled in schools and other public places where "the living conditions are very unhealthy".

In addition, "there is a nominal supply of food, safe drinking water and essential medical supplies. Children, sick and elderly people are facing more problems than other groups of people. It is also reported that in some places diarrhoea has broken out."

LWF Nepal says that because of the difficulties in moving around and with communication, complete information and statistics may vary. However, reports from the Nepal Red Cross Society indicate that some 173 related deaths have occurred so far, with 305 people injured and many reported missing in the affected districts. It is estimated that at least 62,000 families have been affected in some way and that some 28,000 families have been displaced.

Other reports coming from the flood-stricken areas detail the loss of thousands of acres of rice paddies, vegetables and fisheries that have been swept away. Other losses include stored food grains and personal belongings.

Some reports however indicate that the level of flooding is receding. LWF Nepal also reports that local chapters of the Nepal Red Cross, international NGOs, local clubs and other social organisations have raised funds locally, enabling them to distribute food items (rice, salt and sugar) for immediate relief.

The government’s Central Disaster Relief Committee has also provided relief funds to the District Disaster Relief Committees, which are providing relief assistance. Media reports however indicate that relief has yet to reach many of those affected by the torrential rains.

LWF Nepal has requested US$381,854 from the ACT alliance to respond to the needs of an estimated 33,000 people (6,000 families) from 40 communities in four of the flood-stricken districts, Makwanpur, Rauthat, Mahottare and Dhanusa. Relief will be in the form of food and medical services. Distribution will last 30 days. Recovery and preparedness activities are also included in the proposed appeal.

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