Days after devastating flash floods displaced thousands, women survivors in relief shelters are grappling with acute sanitation and menstrual hygiene challenges.

At a school-turned-camp in Nuwakot district, more than 400 people share just three toilets, none connected to running water. “There are privacy as well as sanitation concerns,” said Anju Bhujel, 40, who fled with her two children after their home was swept away.

Aid groups have distributed sanitary pads, but disposal remains a major issue. “You can find used pads strewn around the bathrooms,” Bhujel added. Another survivor, Yogita Tamang, broke down: “They are giving us pads but we don’t have undergarments. What will we do with pads if we don’t have underwear?”

The United Nations Population Fund has begun distributing “dignity kits” containing soap, underwear, and sanitary supplies. Yet, water shortages persist. “Not only is there no water in the bathroom, there is a shortage of drinking water,” Tamang said.

Humanitarian agencies warn overcrowding and lack of privacy increase risks of harassment. UN Women stressed the need for gender-sensitive disaster response, while UNICEF officials called for psycho-social support to restore a sense of normalcy.

Camp managers say more supplies are on the way, but survivors fear displacement again when schools reopen. “Where will we go then? We will have to sleep on the street,” said Maina Nepal, 50.