The United Nations Children’s Fund – UNICEF said on Friday that according to a preliminary assessment by officials in Nepal, the rains and floods have so far killed around 217 people, including 35 children.
Besides them, many others are injured or missing.
Hundreds of homes were severely damaged, displacing thousands of children and their families.
Additionally, landslides and debris blocked major roads, hampering search and rescue efforts.
The rains that started on September 27 have continued and have been the heaviest in decades.
Children in big shock
UNICEF Representative in Nepal, Alice Akunga said, “…my deepest condolences to the families who lost their lives in this accident, including children. “Children and youth need immediate support.”
He said the children are going through huge trauma, including losing their homes, and are in dire need of mental health support. In some cases, girls and boys are even victims of violence, exploitation and abuse.
Alice Akunga said UNICEF is on the ground and working tirelessly with governments and other partners to provide support to the most affected children and their families.
This includes life-saving medicines and other services.
He said that around 13 hospitals have already been damaged by these rains and floods and water supply has also been severely affected, posing a new threat to children’s health and nutrition.
The loss of an estimated 54 schools deprived nearly 10,000 girls and boys of a safe place to learn, play and recover from trauma.
Alice Akunga said UNICEF is working closely with the Nepalese government and humanitarian partners to accurately assess the situation and provide immediate assistance.