Nepal flood survivors struggle with sanitation crisis in relief camps

Relief camps established across Nepal following catastrophic flooding are grappling with severe sanitation deficiencies, leaving female survivors particularly vulnerable. Inadequate toilet facilities, coupled with acute water shortages, have created unsanitary conditions that threaten the health and wellbeing of camp residents.

The crisis extends to basic personal-care supplies, which remain in critically short supply across multiple camps. Women and girls in these facilities face significant challenges maintaining personal hygiene during menstruation and daily routines, compounding their distress during an already traumatic displacement.

Humanitarian organisations and local authorities have acknowledged the scale of the sanitation crisis as flood waters recede and permanent camps become established. The shortfall in essential infrastructure underscores the mounting pressure on relief efforts as the number of displaced persons continues to strain available resources.

Healthcare workers have warned that poor sanitation conditions could trigger disease outbreaks if urgent improvements are not implemented. Authorities have pledged to prioritise sanitation upgrades, though progress remains hampered by logistical constraints and the scale of devastation across affected regions.