New Delhi: While the floodwaters in Nepal have receded since the disaster on August 26, they left behind a scene of devastation that future generations will not soon forget. It may take decades to recover from the immense losses caused by this calamity. According to a report, the estimated financial loss to Nepal from this disaster is around 400 billion rupees. The death toll from the tragedy continues to rise, reaching 1,344, while approximately 5,000 people remain missing.
The floods are also impacting Nepal’s tourism industry; the country previously earned significant revenue from tourism, but operations have now come to a standstill. Administrative teams are actively engaged in relief and rescue operations, evacuating people from affected areas. Although the period from September to November is considered the peak tourist season, tourists are rapidly cancelling their bookings.
20% of Bookings Cancelled at a Single Hotel
The devastating floods in Nepal have shaken everyone; several villages turned into death traps. Foreign tourists currently do not consider it advisable to visit Nepal’s tourist destinations, leading to a rush of hotel booking cancellations. For instance, one hotel in Kathmandu has seen about 20% of its bookings cancelled. According to the hotel’s managing director, there has been a surge in cancellations particularly of online bookings in the week following the floods.
Nepal Government Launches New Initiative
The harrowing images of the floods in Nepal shocked everyone, and foreign tourists have been deeply affected by the visuals of the disaster. To address this, the government has launched the #NepalCalling campaign. According to the government, airports remain open at most major tourist destinations, including Kathmandu, Pokhara, Chitwan, Lumbini, Janakpur, Annapurna, and Everest. Certain routes, such as Langtang, Gosaikunda, the Helambu Circuit, and the Tamang Heritage Trail, are affected or restricted.
Funds required for relief over the next six months
According to initial estimates, approximately 8 billion Nepalese rupees will be required over the next six months for the rescue, relief, and immediate management of flood-affected people. Meanwhile, plans to mobilise the necessary funds for rehabilitation and reconstruction will be formulated based on the PDNA report.
According to the NDRRMA’s preliminary assessment, approximately 7,570 houses have been affected by the floods. About 55 kilometres of roads, 37 road bridges, and 68 suspension bridges have been destroyed or damaged. It is worth noting that rescue operations are currently underway following the flood disaster in Nepal. The death toll in the flood-affected areas is expected to rise, as many people remain trapped in debris and tunnels.
