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

In response to the devastating floods that struck the Bhotekoshi river in Rasuwa on August 26, the Nepalese government has instituted a 'one-door system' to manage incoming disaster relief efforts. This centralized approach aims to consolidate the collection and distribution of aid, thereby preventing potential irregularities and ensuring that assistance reaches the affected victims promptly and efficiently.

“

The policy was introduced to eliminate potential financial irregularities and ensure that relief reaches affected communities without delay.

The policy, overseen by Nepal's Ministry of Finance, applies to all potential donors, including individuals, private sector entities, donor agencies, and international organizations. Contributions, whether in cash or in-kind, are to be channeled through the Prime Minister's Disaster Relief Fund. The government has appointed specific focal persons and designated locations for collecting aid, which will then be systematically distributed to those in need.

“

Donors can either hand over materials to the government or coordinate to deliver relief directly to victims.

For those wishing to contribute materials rather than cash, the government has established three main drop-off hubs. International relief supplies can be delivered to the National Emergency Operation Centre Warehouse at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. Domestic relief materials for the Nuwakot Area are collected at the Nepali Army’s Maithali Barracks in Battar, Nuwakot, while those for the Dhading Area are received at the Baireni Barracks in Dhading. Donors can also coordinate directly with the Chief District Officer of the affected districts.

“

The government has not granted permission to any private organisation, group, or individual to collect relief funds or materials independently.

Crucially, the government has emphasized that no private organization, group, or individual has been granted permission to independently collect relief funds or materials. Senior officials have confirmed that unauthorized collection drives, including those circulating on social media, are illegal. The Ministry of Home Affairs has been directed to halt all such unauthorized fundraising immediately. The distribution mechanism involves civil administration, the Nepali Army, the Nepal Police, and local and provincial governments to ensure equitable aid delivery.

“

Nepal’s Ministry of Home Affairs has been instructed to halt all unauthorised fundraising immediately.