Taiwanese NGOs are sending humanitarian and medical aid to Nepal after the country’s devastating 7.8 magnitude earthquake.
The Buddha’s Light International Association sent a team of 37 on Tuesday to help with medical care. Master Chueh Pei explained, “Basically what we’re doing is responding quickly because [the victims] have illnesses and broken bones from the earthquake. So we are sending orthopedic doctors and surgeons. We are focusing on medical care so many on the team are medical personnel. As for supplies, we’re also bringing some food and tents. But most of the supplies will come in the second batch.”
Taiwan’s Red Cross also sent three people with the Buddhist organization. The Red Cross is bringing 10 tents, 100 boxes of instant noodles, 50 boxes of bottled water, and 2 power generators. It is also going to bring over 1,000 sleeping bags, rugs and other supplies in a second trip.
Defense ministry spokesman David Lo said the ministry has a medical team ready to help.
Taiwan offered to send rescue workers right after the disaster, but Nepal declined the help, citing lack of diplomatic ties and the distance between the two countries.