Singapore is deploying humanitarian supplies and specialized disaster relief personnel to Nepal following flooding that left more than 900 people confirmed dead, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA). Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan confirmed the deployment during a phone conversation with his Nepalese counterpart Shisir Khanal, as search and rescue operations continue near the Nepal-China border where nearly 5,000 people remain missing.
Singapore Police Force and Crisis Response Team Deployments
The Singapore Police Force is dispatching a specialized team to Nepal to assist with ongoing recovery efforts, according to the MFA. The deployment directly responds to a request from the Nepalese government and includes officers specifically trained in disaster victim identification.
Complementing the police deployment, the MFA’s Crisis Response Team has operated on the ground in Nepal to provide direct consular assistance to affected Singaporeans. According to government reports, nine Singaporeans were initially reported missing after massive waves of water, rocks, and debris smashed into villages.
Government and Military Humanitarian Aid Deliveries
In addition to specialized personnel, the Singapore Government is delivering comprehensive material aid. According to MFA disclosures, these shipments include both civilian relief supplies and logistics provided directly by the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF).
This state-level logistical push builds upon earlier financial contributions. The Singapore Government previously contributed US$100,000 (S$127,000) to support a public fundraising campaign launched by the Singapore Red Cross. According to tracking data, the Singapore Red Cross public fund has raised approximately $1 million in total contributions so far to support the disaster response.
Bilateral Coordination and Condolences
During their Aug 31 call, Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan formally conveyed Singapore’s condolences to the people of Nepal and commended local disaster relief operations. According to the MFA, Balakrishnan also expressed appreciation for the active assistance provided by the Nepal government in the ongoing search for missing Singaporeans.
Nepalese Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal formally acknowledged the assistance, expressing Nepal’s deep appreciation for the Singapore Government’s swift support. The MFA stated that Singapore will continue to work closely with authorities in Kathmandu to coordinate the delivery of humanitarian aid as recovery operations proceed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What specific personnel is Singapore sending to Nepal?
According to the MFA, the Singapore Police Force is deploying officers specializing in disaster victim identification, alongside the MFA’s Crisis Response Team.
How much money has the Singapore Red Cross raised for flood relief?
The Singapore Red Cross public fundraising campaign has raised around $1 million in total, which includes a US$100,000 (S$127,000) contribution from the Singapore Government.
How many casualties have been reported in the Nepal floods?
According to official reports, more than 900 people have been confirmed dead and nearly 5,000 remain missing following severe flooding and debris flows near the Nepal-China border.
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