Rojina Dhungana woke up to distressing videos on Wednesday, showing her hometown in Nepal being engulfed by dangerous floodwaters where she spent her childhood. Although her parents reside there, the 28-year-old received assurance from one of her siblings that they are safe. However, despite the days that have passed since the calamity, she has yet to directly communicate with them.
Expressing her distress, Dhungana shared how challenging it is, especially since she typically communicates with her mother twice daily through FaceTime. She emphasized the emotional turmoil she has been experiencing, stating that there are no adequate words to describe the recent events.
In solidarity with the affected Nepalese community, Dhungana joined over 100 members in Ottawa for a candlelight vigil on Friday night. Ramesh Baniya, the organizer, highlighted that everyone present had been impacted by the floods, including his personal loss of two childhood friends.
During the vigil, participants gathered to remember, mourn, and offer prayers. They lit candles in honor of those who lost their lives in the tragic event. The devastation resulted in nearly 600 recovered bodies and 1,924 individuals reported missing.
Nepal’s ambassador to Canada, Bharat Raj Paudyal, addressed the attendees, describing the extensive destruction caused by the floods, including the loss of bridges and hydroelectric projects. He emphasized the unprecedented scale and devastation of the disaster, with numerous historical cities and towns being leveled.
Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe also expressed his condolences on behalf of the city, acknowledging the anxiety and concern among community members for their missing loved ones. The mayor described the sudden and inconceivable nature of the disaster.
Dhungana shared her disbelief at the images and footage depicting the ruins of her hometown, Trishuli Bazar. Recollecting memories of the neighborhood, stores, and relatives, she lamented the stark transformation caused by the disaster. While her parents’ residence remained safe on a hill during the flood, many others were not as fortunate.
Having connected with a schoolmate who witnessed the tragic events unfold, Dhungana recounted the helplessness felt as hundreds of people were swept away by the floodwaters. She anxiously awaits news from her family and hopes for swift assistance to those enduring the aftermath without essential resources.
Concerned about her mother’s well-being amidst the wreckage and lack of basic amenities, Dhungana remains hopeful for positive updates on their safety and recovery.