Climate change is increasing the risk of glacial collapse and extreme flooding in Nepal, putting already vulnerable mountain communities at greater risk.
The Sisters of Charity of Nazareth are planning a response alongside local partners in response to catastrophic flooding that has caused widespread destruction in Nepal, leaving families without homes, farmland, and sources of income.
Sister Oliva Kujur was part of an assessment team that visited the rural municipality of Galchi in the Dhading district with the Nepal Jesuit Social Institute. After seeing the damage, Sister Oliva described the situation simply: “Nothing is left there.”
The assessment found severe damage to homes, farmland, and infrastructure. Immediate needs include safe drinking water, shelter, medical care, sanitation, clothing and assistance for children returning to school.
The Sisters of Charity of Nazareth are working as part of a coordinated response with other humanitarian organizations and government agencies. Initial SCN assistance includes bed mats, clothing and mosquito nets for affected families. Sisters and volunteers are also returning to impacted communities to distribute essential items.
Sister Suchita Kullu, who also participated in the assessment, said the flooding devastated homes, farms and entire communities.
“There is nothing left except a little ray of hope, human solidarity,” Sister Suchita said. She noted that recovery will take significant time and will require continued assistance from organizations and government agencies.
The Sisters of Charity of Nazareth have ministries in areas of the Dhading district, west of Kathmandu. Their ongoing presence in Nepal allows SCNs to work closely with communities, local leaders and partner organizations as needs emerge.
The flooding followed an Aug. 26 glacial collapse. The disaster has renewed concerns about the effects of climate change on vulnerable communities throughout the region.
Members of an assessment team by the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth, Kathmandu, and the Nepal Jesuit Social Institute tour flood-affected areas in the Galchi rural municipality of Dhading, a largely agricultural area in northeast Nepal.
The full story, reported by Chris Herlinger, was published Sept. 3 by National Catholic Reporter and Global Sisters Report under the headline, “Nepal floods leave ‘nothing’ behind as Catholic nuns mobilize aid.”