Kathmandu: Heavy rainfall in the past days has caused widespread flooding in Nepal, affecting thousands of children and their families, UNICEF said today.
According to early estimates by authorities, around 217 people, including 35 children, have lost their lives, with many others injured or missing. Hundreds of houses have been damaged, displacing thousands of children and their families, leaving them vulnerable to the elements.
In addition, landslides and rubble have blocked major roads and are hampering critical search and rescue efforts. The incessant rains, which lashed down non-stop since 27 September, have been one of the heaviest rains Nepal has seen in the past few decades.
“On behalf of UNICEF Nepal, I offer my heartfelt condolences to the families who have lost loved ones, including children. Children and young people desperately need support. In addition to losing their homes, we cannot underestimate the trauma children have endured and the mental health support they need. At times like this, girls and boys are ever more vulnerable to violence, exploitation and abuse,” said UNICEF Representative to Nepal Alice Akunga.
“UNICEF is on the ground and working around the clock with Government and partners to reach the most affected children and their families with life-saving supplies and services.”
The impact on children is already being felt. An estimated 13 hospitals have been damaged and water supply has been widely affected threatening children’s health and nutrition. Damage to 54 schools has deprived over 10,000 girls and boys of a safe space to learn, play and heal.
UNICEF is working closely with the Government of Nepal and other humanitarian partners to assess the situation and provide urgent response. Pre-positioned supplies – including hygiene kits, bed nets, buckets, water purification tablets, and tarpaulin sheets – have been dispatched to children and their families.
“I am deeply worried about the children who will sleep outside tonight and in the coming days; we must act quickly,” said Alice Akunga. “In UNICEF, the Government of Nepal and local partners have a trusted agency that is ready to step-up and scale-up the emergency response for every child so that, together, we mitigate the impact of this terrible weather event.”