NGOs give briefing on support efforts in flood-hit Nepal

Nearly three weeks after massive flash floods struck the Nepal-China border, representatives from international NGOs working in the area have called for long-term support for affected communities.

A Japanese group that has been assessing the extent of the damage and surveying local needs held an online briefing on Monday.

Higuchi Hiroaki from Japan Platform showed how relief supplies are being transported by rope and other means after bridges were washed away in the disaster.

He said: "First of all, roads have been cut off, making it difficult to deliver aid. Therefore, restoring road access has become a prerequisite for relief efforts."

Another Japanese NGO official described talking to people who lost family members about what lies ahead.

Hagihara Hiroko of Shanti Volunteer Association said: "It's difficult for people to move forward when they can't envision what their future will look like. In that sense, restoring livelihoods will be essential."

Nepali disaster authorities say 1,388 people were killed on the Nepali side in the floods and mudslides on August 26. More than 5,000 others are missing.