When the Waters Receded: Stories of Recovery and Resilience from Nepal

“The floods took away everything,” says Sanu Kanchha Sinhtamang from Konjyosom Rural Municipality (RM), recalling the catastrophic floods of 2024. “And the landslides buried whatever was left.” His words reflect the immense hardship faced by many in Nepal, as villages were submerged by raging floodwaters, followed by landslides that wiped out the remnants of homes and livelihoods. 

In 2024, heavy monsoon rains and overflowing rivers devastated communities in Konjyosom RM, Sinamangal, and Bansighat. Entire villages were flooded, homes destroyed, and families left without shelter, food, or clean water. What followed was a swift call to action—one that would bring hope and relief to these communities in desperate need of support.

ActionAid Nepal’s Immediate Response:  Prioritising Community above all

Partnering with UK in Nepal, Start Fund Nepal, and local organisations Volunteer Corps Nepal and Nepal Mahila Ekata Samaj, ActionAid quickly conducted an assessment of the damage and began providing vital support.

The immediate needs were clear: families required cash to meet urgent survival needs, food and water to sustain themselves, and shelter to rebuild their lives. In Konjyosom RM, Bansighat, and Sinamangal, ActionAid Nepal responded by delivering cash assistance, nutritional supplies, WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) kits, and dignity kits to those most in need. Cash-for-work programs were introduced, giving affected families an opportunity to clean debris and start rebuilding their homes. Temporary water stations were set up to provide clean drinking water in Bansighat, and dignity kits helped women and girls maintain essential hygiene during the crisis.

This critical support was provided just ahead of the biggest festival of the year, Dashain, a time when families typically come together in celebration. Despite the festive season, the focus remained on ensuring families had the essentials they needed to survive and recover. 

The local government played a pivotal role throughout the project interventions. They supported the selection of beneficiaries, and facilitated District Disaster Management Committee (DDMC) meetings. The Nepal Police Force of Konjyosom assisted in the distribution of relief materials, ensuring the process was smooth and secure. Beyond the immediate response, the government collaborated with ActionAid on early recovery actions, further enhancing the impact of the interventions.

Stories of Recovery: Real Lives, Real Impact

The resilience of these communities has been inspiring. Many families, with the support of ActionAid International Nepal, have already begun rebuilding their lives.

Kalpana Rai’s struggles were worsened when the floodwaters engulfed her home just days after bringing her daughter, who suffers from severe kidney issues, back from the hospital. “This money will help me with my child’s medications and treatment,” she shared, expressing her gratitude for the 15,000 NPR cash assistance she received. 

Similarly, Bal Bahadur Bal Tamang’s story highlights the strength of the human spirit. His home, which he had spent 6.5 years building, was partially damaged in the floods. With ActionAid International Nepal’s support, he is now rebuilding his home, bringing hope for a fresh start and stability. 

In the wake of the disaster, ActionAid Nepal also prioritised the education of children who were displaced. Temporary Learning Centres (TLC) were set up in flood-affected areas, allowing children to continue their education. With materials provided by ActionAid, these children are returning to school, finding a sense of normalcy amidst the chaos.

Building Back Stronger: A Future of Resilience

As the floodwaters receded, ActionAid’s focus shifted to building long-term resilience in these communities. Families are not only rebuilding their homes but also restoring their livelihoods through agricultural support and vocational training. With continued psychosocial counseling and education programs, the people of Konjyosom RM, Bansighat, and Sinamangal are gaining the tools to build a more resilient future.

The support provided has not only restored homes and infrastructure but also provided a sense of dignity and hope to those who have lost everything. By focusing on the immediate and long-term needs of these communities, ActionAid Nepal has ensured that the recovery process is both sustainable and empowering.

The story of these communities is one of devastation, but also of recovery and resilience. 

The journey continues, as efforts to rebuild homes and lives are complemented by a broader commitment to restore dignity and foster long-term resilience. Together, through collective action, we can ensure that the voices of those most affected by disaster are heard, their needs met, and their future secured.

Guest blog by ActionAid Nepal

Photo credits: 2024, ActionAid Nepal