In response to the devastating effects of a glacier collapse in Nepal, members of Houston’s Nepalese community are mobilizing efforts to provide emergency aid to victims and displaced families. The catastrophe occurred on August 26, when a significant glacier collapse triggered a massive avalanche along the Lhende Khola and Bhote Koshi river system, resulting in catastrophic flooding.
The floodwaters, filled with mud and debris, wreaked havoc across several districts, including Rasuwa and Nuwakot, destroying vital infrastructure such as bridges and highways. The situation has escalated, with reports indicating that the combined death toll in both Nepal and Tibet has approached 700, and over 3,000 individuals remain unaccounted for. This disaster has severed key trade routes, leaving remote mountain communities isolated and hundreds of thousands without essential services.
Local leaders in Houston, including Gyanshor Shrestha, President of the Nepalese Association of Houston, are actively working to raise awareness and funds for those affected. Shrestha was in Nepal at the time of the disaster and described the harrowing experience of witnessing the flood’s destruction firsthand.
“I saw on the TV breaking news, keep flashing,” Shrestha recounted. “I saw the glacier lake burst out… and there is a force, you can see 100 meters, like that, the waves. It’s scary to see that.” He emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “Nepal needs help now. Please help.”
Aires Kheral, Vice President of the Nepalese Association of Houston, echoed the sentiment of urgency as he monitored developments from Texas. He expressed concern for the individuals working on hydropower projects in the affected areas and highlighted the need for ongoing international support for recovery efforts.
“Right now, the emergency is being taken care of locally. But there’s a lot of work coming up—people have to rebuild, people have to find jobs, farms, roads, bridges,” Kheral stated. He urged the community to focus on gathering funds to assist in the recovery process.
The destruction caused by this disaster has profound implications for the region, with many community members in Houston having relatives and farmland impacted by the floods. Shrestha recalled similar past disasters but noted the unprecedented scale of this event.
To coordinate relief efforts, the Nepalese Association of Houston, in collaboration with other local organizations, has established an Emergency Relief Fund. Community leaders are encouraging residents to contribute to the verified fundraising campaign.
“We request everyone who can to open their wallets now,” Shrestha urged. “Nepal needs help now in the recovery process. Please spread the word to the entire community.”
For those wishing to support the relief efforts, donations can be made through the Nepal Flood Relief Emergency Fund on GoFundMe.
