The World Health Organisation (WHO) has released $1,50,000 from the South-East Asia Regional Health Emergency Fund (SEARHEF) to support urgent needs of the communities impacted by the devastating flashfloods in Nepal, one of the worst tragedies in the country in recent times.“The emergency funds will support immediate response priorities. The WHO is committed to supporting Nepal through the response and recovery efforts,” said Dr Nilesh Buddha, Officer-in-Charge, WHO South-East Asia Regional Office.Earlier, within hours of the flash floods on August 26, the WHO mobilised and dispatched essential emergency medical supplies, including an interagency emergency health kit that can cater to the health needs of nearly 10 000 people for 3 months, along with multipurpose tents.The WHO said an estimated 10,000 households needed immediate relief in six districts across Bagmati and Gandaki provinces, severely affected by the floods.“Widespread loss of life, displacement and damage to critical infrastructure, including health facilities, are being reported. Four health facilities in the worst-hit Rasuwa district have been completely damaged and two in Dhading are partially damaged. Two hospitals — in Dhading and Trishuli — are inaccessible as roads are damaged. Reaching displaced populations in access to compromised areas continues to be a challenge,” WHO said, adding it was working closely with the Nepal Government to coordinate health response, strengthen disease surveillance, maintain essential health services and identify and address emerging health risks