Nepal Flash Floods: Death Toll Reaches 1,344, Nearly 4,900 Missing
Nepal’s flash floods have resulted in a death toll of 1,344, with nearly 4,900 individuals still unaccounted for as rescue teams intensify their efforts.
The Revise
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The tragic toll from the flash floods in Nepal climbed to 1,344 on Saturday, with rescue teams recovering more bodies from affected regions. Currently, officials report that 4,898 people are still missing.
The floods began on August 26 when an ice-rock avalanche near the Nepal-Tibet border unleashed massive torrents into the Bhotekoshi River, submerging homes, vehicles, and infrastructure. Following the disaster, authorities from the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA) indicated that over 13,000 individuals have already been rescued from high-risk areas.
Among those confirmed deceased, officials have identified 758 adults and 85 children. Disturbingly, 501 bodies were found in a condition too advanced for identification due to prolonged water exposure and debris weight. Authorities undertook immediate procedures, including DNA collection, leading to the temporary burial of 1,030 bodies.
Chitwan district has endured the most casualties with 360 bodies recovered, while significant recoveries occurred in Rasuwa, Nuwakot, Dhading, Gorkha, Tanahun, Nawalparasi East, and Nawalparasi West.
The ongoing search has intensified concerns over the missing population, particularly among the children, with more than 600 boys and girls unaccounted for in Rasuwa and Nuwakot alone.
In response, authorities vigilantly monitor water levels across various major rivers, including the Koshi, Narayani, and Bagmati, as forecasted rainfall raises fears of further flooding.
Rescue efforts continue on the eleventh day, led by joint teams comprising the Nepal Army. They focus on critical hydropower sites where numerous workers are trapped.
Significantly, two individuals were rescued alive from the Trishuli 3A hydropower project on Friday; they were identified as Kabir Maharjan, 45, and Sanjay Sah, 30. Their miraculous survival amid dire conditions inspires hope among the rescue teams.
An Indian rescue team has been instrumental in establishing a temporary access route inside the Chilime tunnel, allowing heavier equipment to assist in rescue operations. Reports indicate that the disaster has also claimed at least 21 lives in China, with over 500 individuals missing in Tibet, escalating the urgency of cross-border rescue coordination.
As the situation unfolds, search operations resumed on Saturday. Authorities remain determined to recover bodies, while rescue teams continue their life-saving work amidst the challenges presented by the natural disaster.
