Nepal government implements 'one-door policy' for flood relief

Following devastating floods along the Bhotekoshi river, the Nepal government has introduced a 'one-door system' to streamline the collection and distribution of relief materials. This initiative aims to prevent financial irregularities and ensure aid reaches affected communities promptly.

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The government introduced the one-door policy to eliminate potential financial irregularities and ensure that relief reaches affected communities without delay.

The policy applies to all potential donors, including individuals, private sector entities, donor agencies, and international organizations, who wish to contribute to the Prime Minister’s Disaster Relief Fund. The Office of the Prime Minister has designated specific focal persons and locations for aid collection. The government will then systematically distribute these resources.

Donors have the option to contribute either cash or in-kind supplies. For in-kind donations, the government has established three main drop-off hubs: the National Emergency Operation Centre Warehouse at Tribhuvan International Airport for international air cargo, the Nepali Army’s Maithali Barracks in Nuwakot for domestic relief, and the Baireni Barracks in Dhading for another domestic relief collection point. Donors can also coordinate directly with the Chief District Officer in affected districts.

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No. The government has not granted permission to any private organisation, group, or individual to collect relief funds or materials independently.

Crucially, the government has stated that no private organization, group, or individual has been granted permission to independently collect relief funds or materials. Senior officials confirmed that unauthorized fundraising efforts, including those circulating on social media, are illegal. The Ministry of Home Affairs has been directed to halt all such unauthorized activities immediately. The collected aid will be distributed equitably using a mechanism involving civil administration, the Nepali Army, the Nepal Police, and local and provincial governments to ensure no victim is overlooked. There are no limits on the amount of cash or volume of materials that can be donated.

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These amendments provide clearer direction on how different living situations are considered when determining eligibility for income assistance rates, so the program can be administered consistently and transparently across the province.