Members of Northampton Nepalese community anxiously wait for news of loved ones in Nepal

Devastating flash floods in Nepal have left more than 1,200 people dead and thousands more missing.

Among those unaccounted for are family members of Northampton residents, who are still waiting to hear if their loved ones are safe.

Roshan Giri, vice-president of the Northampton Nepalese Community, said: “Many members of the local Nepalese community have family members, relatives and friends in the affected areas, so the situation has had a very personal impact on people here in Northampton.

“Some families are still trying to establish the safety and wellbeing of loved ones, which has understandably caused a lot of anxiety.

“The feeling within the Northampton Nepalese community has been one of deep sadness, shock and concern.

“Many people have been following the situation closely and are extremely worried about those affected. There has been a strong sense of people coming together to support the victims, their families and communities back home.”

Catastrophic floods swept through a Himalayan valley on the Nepal and Tibet border last Wednesday (August 26), believed to have been triggered by the collapse of a glacier.

According to Nepal’s disaster management agency, nearly 12,000 people have been rescued and some 4,200 are still missing.

To support rescue and relief efforts, the Northampton Nepalese Community has started a fundraising page.

So far more than £3,000 has been donated, with funds raised going to the Prime Minister’s Disaster Relief Fund of Nepal.

Roshan said: “In response to this devastating disaster, the Northampton Nepalese Community is launching an emergency fundraising campaign to support the people of Nepal during this incredibly difficult time.

“The Nepali community has always stood together in times of crisis. Now is the time for us to come together once again.

“Let us stand with Nepal, support those affected and show our community stands together.

“Whatever you are able to contribute, your support can make a real difference.”

Visit www.gofundme.com/f/stand-with-nepal-emergency-fundraising-appeal to donate or find out more.