The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), in collaboration with local governments and communities, has launched a cash-for-work initiative to help clear flood debris in Nuwakot while providing income opportunities to the residents affected by the devastating flood on August 26.
The initiative, supported by the UN in Nepal and the Government of Switzerland, engages local people in clearing debris from homes and roads, helping restore access to affected settlements and supporting their recovery, UNDP said in a recent social media post.
Many families in flood-affected communities in Nuwakot continue to struggle to return to their homes after floods buried houses and roads under mud, boulders and river sediments.
The scale of the challenge is reflected in the experience of Nani Maya KC of Ward 7 of Bidur Municipality, whose house was buried under debris and river sediments. Although the debris inside her house has been cleared, piles of boulders and sediment along the road continue to block access to her home.
Sharing her experience during a community consultation, KC broke down in tears, highlighting the difficulties faced by families who have lost their homes, livelihoods and sense of security.
For affected families, the cash-for-work programme offers more than temporary employment. By involving residents in debris clearance, it helps restore access to homes and communities while enabling them to earn an income as they work towards rebuilding their lives.
