KATHMANDU: Nepal Sports Journalists Forum (NSJF) today handed over Rs 1.25 million to the family members of sport journalist Suman Bhomjan who lost his life in the April 25 devastating earthquake.

The amount included Rs 500,000 sent by the International Sports Press Association (AIPS), while other remaining Rs 759,394 was raised by the NSJF from the well wishers of the sports journalists. The National Players Welfare Fund had donated Rs 100,000 to help Bhomjan’s family.

NSJF President Ajay Phuyal handed over the cheques to the parents of Bhomjan, Surendra Bahadur and Bimala Lama at their residence in Hetauda, Makawanpur today. Bhomjan’s body was recovered after eight days from the rubbles of his rented house at Bhotahity Falfulgalli, Kathmandu. Phuyal said that NSJF was always ready to help the family member of Bhomjan. “No doubt it is an irreparable loss. You can count in us whenever you need help,” Phuyal added. “You have lost one son, but you have earned a lot in us.”

NSJF Secretary Prakash Timalsina said nothing could repair the loss. “As brothers and friends, we tried our best in searching Bhomjan. But we were unable to find him alive,” Timalsina said.

“We set a relief fund at NSJF and the sports enthusiasts across the country and our friends in foreign lands contributed for the cause. We would like to thank all the supporters in joining hands with NSJF,” he added.