In March 2019, massive storms ripped through the districts of Bara and Parsa in southern Nepal. The Nepal Government recorded it as the first ever tornado to hit Nepal. Tragically, twenty-seven people were killed, and twelve hundred families were displaced.
Jagiya Devi [28] lives in Bara. During the terrifying storms her family’s home – a small hut – was completely destroyed. In the picture above, she sits where her house used to be. Her husband is working overseas, leaving her to care for their children and her parents-in-law alone. Jagiya Devi’s family was one of three hundred to receive a hygiene kit from INF, which contributed to the emergency response in coordination with government and other organisations. These kits contained vital items such as toothpaste & toothbrushes, soap, sanitary items and towels, to prevent the spread of disease and ease families’ burden as they recovered from the disaster.
Jagiya Devi’s story features in INF Australia’s latest Annual Report 2018-19. The report highlights INF’s work across Nepal to empower communities, provide health care and prepare for disasters. You can read it here.