Kathmandu— Minister Sita Badi of Women, Children, Gender and Sexual Minorities, and Social Security held discussions with officials from the Nepal Red Cross Society (NRCS) on August 30 regarding relief efforts for people impacted by recent flash floods in the Bhotekoshi river. The meeting focused on coordinating government and NRCS efforts to provide additional assistance to those affected by the disaster.

Government's Commitment

Minister Badi expressed gratitude to the Nepal Red Cross Society for its immediate response following the floods in Rasuwa district, including prompt mobilization of staff and volunteers. She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to coordinating efforts with the NRCS to provide additional assistance to those affected by the devastating disaster.

Focus on Vulnerable Groups

The Ministry's Secretary Krishna Bahadur Raut highlighted that the government has prioritized women, children, senior citizens, and social security. He urged the NRCS to give greater priority to psychosocial counseling, family reunification, and other services for these vulnerable groups.

Red Cross Response

NRCS Chairman Dr Bishal Kumar Bhandari briefed on his organization's immediate response following the August 26 catastrophic flash flood in Rasuwa, Nuwakot, and Dhading districts. The Red Cross Society has been providing services by forming clusters aligned with government arrangements, prioritizing women, children, elderly people, and persons with disabilities.

International Support

Nepal Red Cross Secretary-General Rishi Raman Khanal informed that the organization is continuously coordinating with the government, International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), partner national societies, and other stakeholders for post-disaster search, rescue, relief, and rehabilitation operations. The IFRC commended Nepal's efforts and urged the international community to help raise funds for support.

(With inputs from RN)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.