The government authorities have not sent relief materials to the flood-affected Morgaun Village of Paterwa Sugauli-4 in Parsa.

Morgaun is one of the flood-hit areas of Parsa, where around 400 people from 81 families are in dire need of help. Floodwaters have damaged almost all homes. Vegetables and crops have been destroyed.

“It has been more than two weeks since the flood, but the government help has not arrived. People are starving. Are we not the citizens of this country?” said Shiva Shankar Sahani, a local man.  

Morgaun is primarily inhabited by the indigenous Malaha people. The village is about 25 km from Birgunj, the district headquarters. The only road linking the village with the rest of the district has been swept away by flood.

“The emergency food and other supplies distributed in the village by some social organisations and individuals after the flood did not last long. We have been waiting for the government to provide us with relief and food,” Sahani said.   

Hunger and diseases have started to stalk the village. Children, elderly, pregnant women and new mothers have been greatly affected.

Prakash Tharu, a social worker, said Morgaun has been converted into a desert after the flood. 

“It is one of the worst hit areas of Parsa. Villagers are starving and falling sick. The government should send immediate help before the situation gets worse,” he said.