Nepal Announces $200,000 Assistance for Sri Lanka’s Flood Relief, Recovery

The Government of Nepal announced on Sunday, November 30, that it will provide $200,000 to Sri Lanka to support flood relief and recovery efforts.

At least 193 people have died, and more than 220 remain missing, as Sri Lankan authorities struggle with rising floodwaters in parts of the capital Colombo. A powerful cyclone triggered the disaster, leaving extensive damage across the country.

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake declared a state of emergency on Saturday to manage the crisis. He also appealed for urgent international support.

AFP, citing the Disaster Management Centre, reported that northern Colombo faced severe flooding as water levels in the Kelani River continued to rise.

In a statement, Nepal’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed “profound sorrow” and “deepest sympathies” over the loss of lives and properties.  

“In the spirit of close bilateral relations, Nepal stands firmly with Sri Lanka in this difficult time,” read the statement. “The Government of Nepal offers its heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and wishes for swift and complete recovery to the injured.” 

It added: “As a gesture of solidarity, the Government of Nepal has decided to extend an assistance of US$ 200,000 (Two hundred thousand US dollar) for the relief and recovery operations.”

Nearly one-third of Sri Lanka remains without electricity or running water, Sri Lankan authorities said. Power lines have collapsed. Water treatment facilities are inundated. Internet connectivity is also disrupted in several areas.

India became the first responder. It dispatched relief supplies and helicopters with crew to support rescue operations. The cyclone destroyed more than 20,000 homes. It forced 122,000 people into temporary state-run shelters. Another 833,000 people are receiving assistance after being displaced.

Troops from the army, navy and air force have been deployed. They are working with civilian emergency teams and volunteers to speed up the relief effort, reported local and international media outlets.

The worst flooding since the turn of the century occurred in June 2003, when 254 people were killed, reported AFP.