‘Scorched by Sunlight, Leaking When it Rains’: Plight of Displaced Families from Bhote Koshi-Trishuli Floods

Families displaced by the Bhote Koshi-Trishuli floods, now forced to live in temporary shelters, report that recent rains have compounded their difficulties. Residents of Palmuni expressed, “Water leaks from above, and cold seeps up from the ground; living here is extremely challenging.” Those displaced by the sudden flood on September 26th are presently residing elsewhere. The affected, compelled to endure life in makeshift shelters, urge the government to quickly formulate policies and provide necessary facilities for their resettlement and livelihood support.

Temba Tamang, who relocated to Khalte in Rasuwa’s North Gaya Rural Municipality following the 2015 earthquake, shared how the flood robbed him not only of family members but also cherished moments. The flood swept away his wife and three daughters. According to Temba, every family in Khalte has lost members. “It is unknown where those carried away by the flood are. I am forced to live under a tarp while grieving their loss,” he said emotionally.

Booti Tamang, currently in a temporary camp, lost her parents, husband, and several relatives in the devastating flood. “After spending fifteen years abroad, my husband returned to Nepal a few months ago to share life’s joys and sorrows with the family. He has been missing since the flood,” she stated. Booti noted that while her husband worked overseas, it was easier to support the family.

Although the temporary camp provides adequate food, Ramesh Ghale believes long-term livelihood is unsustainable. With no other options, he said, “The place where I currently live is very difficult. When the sun shines, it’s impossible to light a fire; when it rains, the entire area turns muddy. There is no bed to sleep on, and water enters from all sides with nowhere to shelter.”