KATHMANDU, NEPAL / RankWire.AI / – The United Nations has launched a $49.6 million emergency appeal to support a four-month response to Nepal’s August floods. This urgent appeal aims to assist 84,270 people, with nearly 40% being children. It encompasses 19,284 households spread across 17 municipalities within six districts, namely Rasuwa, Nuwakot, Dhading, Chitwan, Gorkha, and Tanahu. Relief efforts focus on providing shelter, food, healthcare, clean water, sanitation, protection, and winter aid. The floods, which struck on Aug. 26, caused widespread destruction along major river corridors, devastating numerous communities.
A glacial collapse triggered a surge of water, mud, and debris that swept through settlements along the Bhotekoshi-Trishuli river system and surrounding areas. By Sept. 6, the death toll exceeded 1,300, with nearly 5,000 individuals still missing as search teams pressed on in the affected districts. Rescue operations scoured damaged villages, riverbanks, and hydropower tunnels for survivors and victims. Emergency teams also reached isolated locations after roads and bridges were rendered unusable. While some survivors were rescued days after the disaster, ongoing operations continue to address the needs of those impacted across the region.
The floods caused extensive damage to homes, schools, roads, bridges, and critical infrastructure such as power and water supply systems. Disruptions to transport links have hampered access to mountain communities. The Government of Nepal is leading the national relief efforts across the affected districts, with humanitarian organizations providing support through emergency supplies and services. Their response includes setting up temporary shelters, offering medical aid, distributing food, and ensuring water treatment. Additionally, teams are working to restore electricity and support rural households that have lost livestock or other sources of income.
Fundraising Aims to Cover Essential Services
The $49.6 million appeal is planned to cover ten humanitarian sectors through the end of 2026. About $7.94 million is allocated for food security, while water and sanitation needs amount to roughly $7.9 million. Health requirements are estimated at approximately $7.6 million, with logistics and emergency telecommunications needing around $7.33 million. Shelter-related expenses total about $7.1 million. These key sectors constitute the bulk of the requested funds, enabling relief teams to respond effectively to immediate needs in flood-affected areas.
In northern Nepal, especially in upper Rasuwa, access remains a significant challenge due to damaged roads and bridges. This has slowed delivery efforts and forced some teams to travel on foot. Humanitarian assessments have identified 3,844 displaced individuals living across 34 sites in four regions. They also documented 4,288 affected households, including 2,886 displaced households. These families require shelter, food, clean drinking water, and sanitation support. As aid efforts continue, preparations for cold weather have become an integral part of the response plan.
Relief Supplies Are Being Directed to the Most Affected Areas
UNICEF received 84 metric tonnes of emergency supplies in Kathmandu on Sept. 4, intended for distribution in impacted communities. This shipment included water tanks, hygiene kits, water treatment equipment, diarrhoea treatment supplies, tents, winter clothing, and educational materials. Trucks have started transporting these resources toward Rasuwa, Nuwakot, and Dhading. The supplies are vital for ensuring access to safe water, healthcare, disease prevention, and education. Protecting children and families in remote areas continues to be a priority for humanitarian responders.
The funding appeal also supports direct cash assistance in areas where local markets remain functional. Additional measures include providing temporary shelter materials, portable solar units, and support for compromised water systems. Health services include emergency medical treatment, nutrition support, and urgent care. Protection initiatives focus on children separated from their families during the floods. Food aid and livestock support are part of the broader relief strategy. This funding plan aims to sustain essential services as Nepal continues its rescue, relief, and early recovery efforts.