Officials in Nepal are calling for financial compensation after recent floods, a request that highlights the disparity between countries contributing little to global warming and those suffering its worst effects. Lila Pieters Yahia, the UN Resident Coordinator for Nepal, described the devastation as a “stark illustration of the losses and damages” climate-vulnerable nations now face.
Devastation from melting glaciers
A glacier collapse on the border with China triggered the 26 August floods, a disaster that has killed more than 1,400 people and left thousands missing. The waters washed away critical infrastructure in the Rasuwa, Nuwakot, and Dhading regions, damaging roads, schools, power grids, and water systems. The UN estimates that 84,270 Nepalis, representing 19,284 households, were affected by the disaster.
The country’s request for assistance comes from a position of vulnerability, as Nepal contributes very little to global greenhouse gas emissions while facing profound economic and human consequences from a changing climate. Nepal has approached the UN Loss and Damage Fund, established in 2022 to assist developing countries that are particularly vulnerable to the adverse effects of climate change.
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Targeting aid to affected communities
United Nations agencies and partners are working to deliver aid to survivors, though access to the most remote areas remains difficult. The World Food Programme (WFP) used cargo drones to deliver food to communities isolated by the rising waters, a first for emergency operations in Nepal.
UN agencies and the Nepali government launched a $49.6 million flash appeal to reach 84,000 people before the end of December. The aid package includes cash assistance, cold-weather shelter materials, portable solar power, water purification systems, and food aid. Emergency mobile clinics will provide medical treatment and nutritional support to those in need. Urgent needs include restoring water systems, adding mobile clinics for pregnant women, and providing mental healthcare to serve those affected by the disaster.
Humanitarian teams will also focus on supporting local economies and agriculture, which accounts for 24 percent of Nepal’s gross domestic product. Half of that agricultural output comes from livestock, so aid workers are helping families keep surviving animals alive and safe. The effort aims to restore power, prevent disease outbreaks, and help residents prepare for the coming winter.