Kathmandu— Prime Minister Balendra Shah of Nepal has outlined the government's coordinated response to the recent Bhotekoshi flood, detailing efforts by various state mechanisms including the Joint Operation Committee of the Nepali Army, Quick Action Team from the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority, and Rapid Response Team from the Office of the Prime Minister. The rescue operations have been ongoing since August 26, with over 13,000 security personnel mobilized to assist in search and rescue efforts.

Medical Coordination

The government has allocated 100 beds at the National Trauma Centre and Bir Hospital for treating injured flood victims. Medical teams from Nepal Scout, World Health Organization, Nepal Red Cross, and other organizations have been deployed to provide emergency health services in affected areas. The Prime Minister emphasized coordination with Blood Transfusion Service Centers and provincial health ministries to avoid blood shortages.

Relief Operations

Eight trucks of relief materials were dispatched to the flood-affected regions on Wednesday midnight, and voice, data, and SMS services were provided free of cost to mobile users in affected areas. A team led by Minister for Information and Communications Dr. Bikram Timilsina was sent to assess the situation on August 26. The government has also released Rs 10 million each for Rasuwa and Nuwakot districts, and Rs 5 million for Dhading.

Search and Rescue Efforts

A total of 351 people were rescued through 69 flights, with priority given to critically injured individuals, pregnant women, children, senior citizens, and disabled persons. The government has also deployed a field hospital in Trishuli and sent additional relief materials from Kathmandu to the affected areas.

(With inputs from RN)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.