Himal Press 
KATHMANDU: The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a $5 million emergency grant to fund urgent rescue and relief operations after devastating floods and debris flows struck communities along the Bhotekoshi and Trishuli river systems on August 26.
“This $5 million grant is a promise kept,” said ADB President Masato Kanda. “When people in our member countries need us, we will be there for them. Families along these rivers have lost loved ones, homes, and the basic services their communities need. Help cannot wait.”
The disaster has caused widespread loss of life, injuries, displacement, and severe damage to homes, infrastructure, and essential services in Rasuwa, Nuwakot and Dhading districts.
In a statement on Friday, the ADB said the grant, financed through its Asia Pacific Disaster Response Fund, will help pay for search and rescue equipment, medical supplies, food, safe drinking water, temporary shelter, sanitation and hygiene supplies, debris clearance, emergency stabilization work and logistical support.
“ADB is working closely with the Government of Nepal, including the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority, United Nations agencies, and development partners to assess the changing situation and support the country’s response and recovery,” it added.
ADB also said that it was processing up to $150,000 through a second window of the disaster response fund to support a post-disaster needs assessment, recovery planning, and preparation for possible recovery and reconstruction investments.
