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A RAAF Globemaster has delivered vital supplies to disaster-hit Nepal.
The C-17A Globemaster III departed RAAF Base Amberley on Tuesday, carrying humanitarian aid to the mountainous nation which was recently struck by devastating flooding and mudslides.
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“As part of the whole-of-Australian Government response to the catastrophic flooding in Nepal, the Australian Defence Force (ADF) is supporting the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) by providing a Royal Australian Air Force C-17A Globemaster III to transport humanitarian assistance and disaster relief supplies, equipment and personnel,” Defence said.
In a joint statement over the weekend, Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong, Defence Minister Richard Marles, and International Development Minister Anne Aly said additional Australian personnel, including crisis response, consular officers and Australian Federal Police, had arrived in Kathmandu to support relief efforts.
“The extraordinary scale of this disaster, conditions on the ground and the remoteness of the affected region means there are immense challenges for rescue and recovery efforts,” they said.
“Communities in affected areas face heightened risks following the floods, while damage to roads and bridges has complicated the delivery of emergency assistance.
“The Government of Nepal has requested emergency supplies including hygiene kits and solar lighting solutions.
“Australia’s additional assistance includes $2 million to provide these supplies and other humanitarian support, to be delivered by the Australian Defence Force.”
38 Australians remain unaccounted for following the disaster, as at time of writing, with “grave concerns” remaining for their well-being.
“There are real logistic issues, including communications to find out where people are,” Minister Aly told ABC Radio on Wednesday.
“For those families that are still waiting, those 38 individuals unaccounted for, we understand that it’s a really concerning time, and we’ll continue to do what we can to try and locate those people.”
The Minister also confirmed that the RAAF aircraft was “due to arrive at 10 am local time, which is around 2.15 Eastern Standard time” on Wednesday, and that the Australian Government has already provided $8 million in relief funds.
“That aeroplane has essential supplies, including things like solar lights, including hygiene products, including tents and shelters as well. That’s due to arrive today,” she said.
“The $8 million of aid has been distributed through our local partners, but also local NGOs as well. On top of that, Australia has sent 18 response personnel; that’s on top of those who are already on the ground over there.”
A further $3.5 million has been donated by Australians through the Emergency Alliance Appeal.
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