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Lila Pieters Yahia Pleads for International Aid as Nepal Faces Devastation from Catastrophic Flash Floods

The United Nations Resident Coordinator in Nepal, Lila Pieters Yahia, has issued an emotional plea for international support following catastrophic flash floods that struck the region on August 26. The disaster, which originated from a collapsed glacier, killed at least 1,200 people and left more than 5,500 people missing across Nepal and neighboring Tibet. Lila Pieters Yahia noted that many communities remain cut off from the rest of the world due to destroyed roads and bridges. The floods damaged at least seven hospitals and health centers, creating significant hurdles for medical access. Authorities are currently managing a high risk of waterborne diseases like cholera and diarrheal disease due to contaminated water systems. To address the immediate needs, the UN launched a $50 million appeal to assist over 84,000 people affected by the disaster. While the Nepal Army works to rebuild bridges, residents in some areas, such as Devighat, are currently using a250-metre zipline as a primary means of transport to cross the river. Families of the missing are also performing symbolic last rites for relatives whose bodies have not yet been recovered.

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