Nepal's Disaster Relief Fund Surges: Nearly $15 Million Raised in 36 Hours

Within a mere 36 hours of the government's appeal, Nepal's Prime Minister’s Disaster Relief Fund has amassed an impressive sum exceeding Rs 1.91 billion (approximately $14.3 million USD), according to the Ministry of Finance.

The urgent call for donations was prompted by devastating floods that ravaged areas along the Nepal-China border on Wednesday morning, particularly impacting the Bhotekoshi River. The floods resulted in extensive loss of life and widespread property damage, leading the Cabinet to officially declare the affected regions as disaster zones.

Following the government's appeal, individuals and organizations swiftly responded, contributing to the relief fund. The Ministry of Finance has been designated as the focal point for coordinating these donations. Finance Minister Dr. Swarnim Wagle is personally overseeing institutional donations of Rs 10 million or more, while individuals can also make cash contributions directly at the ministry.

With these recent contributions, the total balance in the Prime Minister’s Disaster Relief Fund has now reached Rs 4.091 billion. This includes a previous balance of Rs 2.172 billion. Notably, private-sector donors contributed Rs 273.3 million within a six-hour period on Thursday alone, not including pledges from friendly countries. The rapid mobilization of funds highlights a strong national response to the disaster.