Red Cross - Response to drought, floods and cholera in Madhesh, 2025
On 23 July 2025, the Government of Nepal declared its first ever drought emergency, covering 136 municipalities across Madhesh.
In August 2025, an outbreak of cholera was detected in Birgunj. Over 1,900 cases and 6 deaths were eventually reported, with cases spreading in Parsa and Siraha Districts.
In October 2025, heavy rains led to flooding across Madhesh Province, leading to evacuations and substantial property damage, without immediately replenishing deep wells.
The Red Cross network acts
Local Nepal Red Cross chapters deployed their volunteers and headquarters sent experts
IFRC allocated 4.5 crore rupees from its Disaster Response Emergency Fund (DREF) for response activities. Our thanks to ECHO for replenishing the DREF.
IFRC members provided top up support for response and recovery
Red Cross impact
34,333 drought-affected persons
Supported with improved water access
14 boreholes & 31 water tanks installed
Focused on the most vulnerable communities (Dalit / Musehar communities & those with high numbers of persons with disabilities, single-headed households, and low-income households)
551,014 people
Reached with cholera information / support for oral cholera vaccination
Over 400 flooded households
Provided tarpaulins, blankets, mattresses, hygiene kits, etc.
Always there for communities, before, during and after crisis. For more information, go to ifrc.org.np.