NCC launches emergency relief after Bhotekoshi River floods cause deaths, damage

KATHMANDU: Nepal Chamber of Commerce (NCC) on Thursday launched an emergency relief, rescue and rehabilitation campaign after severe flooding of Bhotekoshi River in Rasuwa that has caused widespread loss of life and damage across several districts.

The floodwaters have inflicted heavy destruction in Rasuwa, Nuwakot and Dhading, damaging houses, retail shops, private and public transport, freight vehicles, vehicles stored in customs yards, bridges and hydroelectric projects.

To support disaster-response operations, the business body initiated immediate relief collection and distribution. Cash and in-kind assistance have been distributed through the respective district NCC branches in Rasuwa, Nuwakot and Dhading, with additional aid scheduled to continue as required.

The NCC has instructed all its subordinate entities — including district and municipal chapters, Nepal Women Chamber, Nepal Youth Chamber, NCC Disaster Management Council and affiliated commodity associations — to activate immediately for rescue, relief and logistics management.

To enhance search and rescue work, the NCC dispatched a surveillance drone and a high-capacity drone capable of carrying a 50 kg payload to Bidur Municipality. Final preparations are underway to send a larger drone with a 100 kg payload capacity to assist in the affected zones.

The organisation has also distributed 125 power banks to address power-supply issues in the impacted areas. Additionally, Nepal Youth NCC organised a blood donation programme on Bhadra 11 at its secretariat in Jamal, and further donation drives will be conducted as required.

Expressing deep grief over the loss of life and property, the NCC extended its condolences to bereaved families and wished a swift recovery to those injured. "We stand with affected residents, domestic and foreign travellers, industrialists, entrepreneurs and local communities," the organisation said, adding that it remains committed to supporting long-term rehabilitation and reconstruction efforts alongside immediate emergency relief.

In a statement, the NCC urged the government, the private sector, social organisations and the general public to unite and provide maximum assistance during the crisis.