Kathmandu: The death toll from devastating floods and landslides in Nepal has climbed, with more than 680 bodies recovered so far, while 2,498 people remain missing, according to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA).
Bhote Koshi flooding damages roads, bridges, hydel projects
A sharp rise in the water level of the Bhote Koshi river triggered severe flooding across several areas, causing extensive damage to roads, bridges and hydropower projects.
The disaster has also disrupted tourism, with hundreds of foreign visitors reportedly losing contact. Nepal’s tourism department said 753 tourists were missing as of Saturday evening, including 589 foreign nationals. NDRRMA, however, put the number of missing foreign nationals at 517.
Nepal’s Foreign Ministry has established a special emergency control room to provide information to families of missing foreign nationals and coordinate assistance, Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal said.
India steps up rescue and relief operations
India has intensified its relief efforts following the disaster. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar said an Indian Air Force C-130 aircraft carrying an additional 11 tonnes of relief supplies, along with a technical search-and-rescue team, had departed for Nepal.
India has so far transported 68.5 tonnes of relief material, including medicines, food packets, water-purification tablets, portable generators and other essential supplies.
China, Japan, Australia and several other countries are also providing relief materials and technical assistance.
The Nepalese government is conducting a comprehensive assessment of damage to homes, roads, bridges and hydropower infrastructure. Authorities expect international assistance to play a key role in the next phase of rehabilitation and reconstruction.
