The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has announced a grant of approximately NPR 760 million to support rescue and relief efforts for those affected by the Bhotekoshi flood. This grant will be allocated for immediate search and rescue operations, medicines, food supplies, clean drinking water, temporary shelters, and debris removal. ADB also indicated that an additional support of up to $150,000 is being processed for future reconstruction efforts.
Kathmandu, 12 September — In response to the devastating flood in the Bhotekoshi River on 26 August, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) is providing an emergency grant of around NPR 760 million (USD 5 million) to assist those impacted. The funds are intended for immediate rescue and relief operations, ADB stated. “This USD 5 million grant fulfills ADB’s commitment to the people of Nepal,” said Masato Kanda, ADB President.
The destructive flood on Wednesday caused significant loss of life and property in the districts of Rasuwa, Nuwakot, and Dhading. To date, 553 bodies have been recovered, with thousands still reported missing. President Kanda emphasized that ADB stands with Nepal during this crisis. “Our member nations’ people can count on us in times of need. Riverbank families have lost loved ones, homes, and essential community services,” said Kanda. “There can be no delay in providing assistance.”
The damage is extensive and catastrophic, with full assessments still underway. However, this grant will help provide affected communities with immediate access to food, clean water, temporary housing, medicine, and other critical supplies. “In times of disaster, ADB steps forward,” the bank confirmed. The grant is being made available through the Asia Pacific Disaster Response Fund. According to a press release issued by ADB on Friday, the funds will be used to procure necessary equipment for rescue operations, medicine and health supplies, food distribution, sanitation and hygiene materials, debris removal caused by the flood, and emergency temporary restoration.
Additionally, preparation is underway to provide further assistance for future rebuilding. The bank has initiated a process to secure up to an additional USD 150,000 from the Second Window of the Disaster Response Facility for needs assessment, restoration planning, and reconstruction investment. ADB is collaborating closely with the Government of Nepal, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority, United Nations agencies, and other development partners.
