The United States has announced an additional $31 million in support for Nepal’s flood recovery efforts, including funds for permanent bridges, humanitarian assistance and US-made drones for future disaster recovery work.

US Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs Allison Hooker made the announcement during a meeting with Nepal’s Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal in New York on Wednesday.

Hooker extended US sympathies to those affected by the devastating floods in Nepal, including the families of approximately 70 Americans who remain unaccounted for, according to a statement issued by the US Embassy in Kathmandu.

The United States plans to provide $10 million to build permanent, custom-built bridges in flood-affected areas. The bridges will be sourced from a US company and are intended to restore critical transportation infrastructure and strengthen regional connectivity.

The package also includes an additional $8 million for water, sanitation and hygiene, as well as shelter, protection, livelihoods and winterisation support for affected communities.

Another $13 million will be provided for US-made drones designed to support future disaster recovery efforts.

With the latest announcement, total US assistance to Nepal’s flood response and recovery efforts has risen to more than $36 million.

“The United States will continue to work closely with the Government of Nepal to identify and deliver additional assistance where it is most needed,” the statement said.