New Delhi, Aug 27: India has stepped up humanitarian assistance to Nepal as the neighbouring country continues to recover from devastating flash floods and landslides triggered by heavy monsoon rains.
A second flight carrying 37.5 tonnes of relief supplies, medicines and food packets was dispatched on Thursday to support rescue and relief operations in the affected areas.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar said India remains in close and continuous contact with Nepalese authorities and will continue to extend support as relief efforts continue.
The latest shipment comes a day after India sent an initial 10-tonne consignment of relief material to Nepal. The assistance is aimed at helping affected communities meet their immediate needs and supporting agencies involved in emergency operations.
The floods have caused widespread damage in several parts of Nepal, affecting homes, roads, infrastructure and agricultural land. Thousands of families have been impacted, while rescue teams continue to work in affected areas.
The disaster has also claimed a significant number of lives. According to the latest official update, 162 bodies of people swept away by the Bhote Koshi River had been recovered by Thursday morning. Recovery operations have been carried out in several downstream districts, including Rasuwa, Nuwakot, Dhading, Chitwan, Gorkha, Tanahu and Nawalparasi.
India’s Ambassador to Nepal, Naveen Srivastava, formally handed over the relief assistance to Nepalese authorities.
The Ministry of External Affairs said India would continue to provide all possible assistance to Nepal during the crisis. The latest support reflects the close ties between the two countries and India’s Neighbourhood First approach.
As rescue and relief operations continue, the additional supplies are expected to provide much-needed assistance to people affected by the floods and landslides.
India’s continued response also highlights its commitment to supporting neighbouring countries during natural disasters and humanitarian emergencies.