Govt to provide grants to families of monsoon-induced disasters

Kathmandu, 4 May (2021) - In a first-of-its kind practice, the government of Nepal is all set to provide cash grant to the families affected by the monsoon-induced disasters for their rehabilitation.

Government formulated a procedure for the same and has already allocated Rs 200 million to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority, informed Authority’s Chief Executive Anil Pokharel.

Pokharel shared that initially, 247 households in Myagdi district whose houses were rendered inhabitable by various monsoon-induced natural disasters will be provided the grant. The grant shall be provided in three installments and shall be used for reconstruction of houses.

The District Disaster Management Committee should decide and demand for the grant for the victims, according to the Authority.

It is estimated that over 3,000 affected households meet the criteria to receive the grant assistance. The Authority recorded that over 6,000 households were adversely affected by the flood, landslide and inundation among others in the past. 

The monsoon in 2020 had recorded the highest loss of lives and properties. Sindhupalchowk, Baglung, Dolakha, Accham, Kalikot, Nuwakot, Jajarkot, Darchula, Bajhang, Dang, Gorkha, Makawanpur, Tanahu, Arkhakhanchi, Synagja, Rasuwa, Dhankuta, Sankhuwasabha, Gulmi, Morang were among the districts that incurred a massive loss of lives and properties due to monsoon-induced disasters. 

According to the procedure, the beneficiaries will receive a total of Rs 50,000 in grant in the first and second installment for the construction of temporary shelter.

Government will provided Rs 5 million to the affected families in mountainous region in three different rounds.   

Similarly, those affected families in hilly areas would avail Rs 400,000 in total as a grant in three installments. The affected families in Terai region will get Rs 300,000 in three installments.