"The EU contribution supports WFP's Remote Access Operation that employs mountain porters, guides and mule operators--some of whom lost their tourism industry jobs after the earthquake," read a statement jointly issued by the EU and the WFP. The donation comes just weeks after WFP announced that a lack of fuel for helicopters and trucks is causing it to increase its reliance on porters and mules in its earthquake response, it said."The earthquake and the ongoing shortages caused by the unreliable flow of goods at the border is endangering livelihoods in this country," Pippa Bradford, WFP Nepal country director, is quoted as saying. "This project, which has so far employed more than 19,300 people and granted access to roads, trails and markets for more than 127,000 people, is an important step towards recovering some of these livelihoods and helping the most vulnerable."
The EU assistance through WFP's Remote Access Operation ensures the delivery of food and other humanitarian supplies to the most remote and earthquake-affected parts of the country, said Rensje Teerink, EU Ambassador to Nepal. "WFP is transporting food, health kits and medical supplies to thousands of people in rural communities who live in villages located far above the altitude accessible by roads and helicopters," she said.
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