Kathmandu, September 7
Flood-displaced residents from Betrawati in Nuwakot have been taking shelter in tents in the Swaradanda forest, about one kilometre uphill from Betrawati. Nineteen tents have been set up in a row, but residents say they will not be enough as more displaced families return.
According to local Milan Shrestha, around 80 people are currently staying at the site, with more expected to arrive by evening. Twelve tents were provided by the government and the rest by donors. Shashi Dangol, chairperson of the Betrawati Lakhe Club, said many residents are currently away attending funeral rituals and are expected to return after completing them. He said one tent would be needed for each family.
Residents say they urgently need blankets, mattresses, cooking utensils, vegetables and clothes. Medicines for people with chronic conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure are also lacking. There is also a shortage of cooking gas, while transporting supplies remains difficult because of damaged roads. Residents have been advised to collect dry wood from the nearby forest for cooking, but not to cut down trees.
Drinking water and electricity are also major concerns. Residents are currently using a generator, but diesel supplies are running low. Locals have requested solar power facilities.
The displaced community is also struggling with the loss of family members and homes. According to locals, 193 people from six settlements in Betrawati remain missing, 12 days after the flood. The area previously had 299 households with a population of 1,256.
Search operations are continuing in homes swept away or damaged by the flood. A 64-year-old woman, Chandika Shrestha, was rescued on Saturday, the 11th day after the disaster, after being swept away along with her house.
Meanwhile, efforts are underway to clear roads obstructed by mud and debris. An excavator became stuck during road construction, and another excavator is being used to retrieve it.
Photos: Milan Shrestha
