Basu Acharya on the ground in Nuwakot: ‘Right now, people are in survival mode’
Summary
Basu Acharya says survivors of the Nuwakot flash floods are still in shock and operating in “survival mode” as rescue work continues. He warns that the deeper psychological impact, including PTSD, is likely to emerge in the days ahead unless mental health screening and support begin now.
Key Points
- Rescue and relief efforts are ongoing after devastating flash floods in the Bhotekoshi and Trishuli river system, but mental health concerns are rising.
- Basu Acharya says many survivors are in acute stress, searching for missing relatives and unable to think about the future.
- He warns that PTSD and other deeper psychological effects may surface later, after immediate relief activity slows down.
- He says psychological first aid, rumor control, and mental well-being screening should begin immediately.
