The United States has announced an additional $31 million in assistance for Nepal’s flood recovery efforts, with the package covering permanent bridges, humanitarian support and US-made drones for future disaster recovery operations.
The announcement was made by US Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs Allison Hooker following a meeting with Nepal’s Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal in New York.
According to the US announcement, $10 million is planned for permanent, custom-built bridges in flood-affected areas. The bridges are intended to restore important transportation links and improve connectivity in communities affected by the disaster.
A further $8 million is planned for water, sanitation and hygiene assistance, along with support covering shelter, protection, livelihoods and winterisation needs for affected communities.
Another $13 million is planned for US-made drones that can be used to support future disaster recovery efforts. Nepal had already identified high-capacity drones and other specialised equipment as requirements during its flood response and rescue operations.
The latest announcement takes total US assistance for Nepal’s flood response and recovery efforts to more than $36 million.
The aid comes after severe flooding in Nepal caused widespread damage to infrastructure and communities. Nepalese authorities have been working to restore roads, electricity and telecommunications while continuing rescue and recovery operations.
The Nepal government has also sought specialised equipment from international partners, including drones, Bailey bridges, LiDAR systems and other rescue equipment.
The latest US commitment adds to assistance being provided by several countries and international organisations following the disaster. The US statement said Washington would continue working with the Nepalese government to identify and deliver additional assistance where it is needed.
The $31 million figure refers to the additional package announced by the US, while the stated total US assistance for Nepal’s flood response and recovery has risen to more than $36 million.