Archdiocese of Kathmandu Distributes Ration Kits To 200 Landslide Victims

In the aftermath of devastating landslides caused by relentless heavy rains in recent times, the Archdiocese of Kathmandu extended a lifeline to 200 affected families in the remote villages of Rangcha and Singdel, located in Bagmati Province, Nepal. Both villages, which rely heavily on agriculture and husbandry as their primary sources of income, suffered extensive damage due to the disaster, leaving the residents in urgent need of assistance.

Although Rangcha and Singdel had recently begun to see progress with the introduction of electricity and road facilities, the catastrophic rains and subsequent floods and landslides completely destroyed roads and electrical lines. The landslides displaced several families, destroyed livestock, and ravaged crops and fertile lands, effectively pushing the communities back to a pre-modern era. Villagers, now without electricity, have reverted to using kerosene lamps and are forced to travel on foot due to the complete destruction of roadways. The landslides have also disrupted the flow of goods into the villages, further isolating these communities.

Moved by the dire circumstances, the Archdiocese of Kathmandu organized the distribution of essential relief items to support the affected families. Ration kits containing rice, cooking oil, lentils, and kerosene were distributed to 200 families in an effort to provide temporary relief. In total, the Archdiocese distributed 100 sacks of rice, 100 liters of oil, 100 kilograms of lentils, and 100 liters of kerosene. Each family received 12.5 kilograms of rice, half a liter of oil, half a liter of kerosene, and 500 grams of lentils to sustain them during this difficult time.

Due to the severely damaged roads, the relief team was unable to transport the ration kits directly to the villages. The team was forced to unload the supplies one kilometer away from Rangcha village, where the 200 affected families gathered to receive the aid. Despite the challenges, the villagers expressed heartfelt gratitude for the assistance and carried the heavy ration kits on their backs, walking one to two hours to reach their homes.

The villagers shared their experiences, highlighting the gravity of the situation. Dhanmaya BK, one of the recipients, explained: “I do not own any wealth except for a small house. I work in others’ fields to provide for my family, but the landslides have taken away everything. The fields are gone, and there is no work for me. It has become very difficult to manage our daily needs. I am so grateful to you for bringing these rations and helping us during this difficult time.”

Sal Tamang, another villager, shared his thoughts: “Despite the roads being destroyed, you still came to help us and provided food. I was worried that with no roads, no one would be able to reach us, but you came and brought these essential items. You have truly filled our hearts with joy.”

Sonam Tamang, whose home was completely destroyed by the landslides, expressed her concerns for the future: “The heavy rains made us homeless. I never imagined that my house could be swept away, but suddenly, the muddy water came down from the hills and destroyed it. We now have no permanent place to live, and the land I used to farm has also been washed away. I am deeply worried about how I will manage my family.”

The Archdiocese of Kathmandu urges prayers for the swift recovery of the affected communities, asking for God’s grace to restore their lives and bring them comfort during this time of crisis.