Aug 30, Kathmandu - The World Health Organization (WHO) has announced an emergency assistance package worth $150,000 (approximately 20 million Nepalese Rupees) to support health services and emergency response efforts in flood-affected communities in Nepal.

The funding has been allocated through the Southeast Asia Regional Health Emergency Fund. According to the latest reports, over 730 lives have been lost, around 2,500 people remain missing, more than 200 are injured, and 74 are receiving treatment due to the floods.

Nearly 10,000 households across six districts in Bagmati and Gandaki provinces are in urgent need of relief. On the very day the floods struck, Bhadra 10, WHO dispatched essential supplies—including emergency health kits, tents, surgical masks, gloves, and sanitizers—to the affected areas for three months. The floods have caused significant damage to health facilities and road infrastructure.

Four health institutions in Rasuwa and two in Dhading have been completely damaged, with roads to Dhading and Trishuli hospitals blocked, complicating the delivery of health services and relief materials to remote and displaced communities.

WHO is collaborating with the Nepalese government and partner organizations to enhance health response efforts and disease surveillance. The floods have heightened risks of cholera, respiratory infections, waterborne and foodborne diseases, as well as serious mental health and psychosocial issues among those who have lost their homes and loved ones.

Meanwhile, Dr. Nilesh Buddha, Acting Head of WHO Southeast Asia, reaffirmed the organization's ongoing commitment to supporting Nepal’s emergency response and recovery efforts.