Kathmandu: Nepal’s devastating flash floods have claimed at least 734 lives, with the death toll continuing to rise as rescue teams recover more bodies on the fifth day of the disaster.
Nearly 2,500 people remain missing, according to the latest information, as security personnel and rescue teams continue search operations across the worst-hit areas.
Authorities have now recovered bodies from all eight affected districts, while efforts remain focused on locating those still unaccounted for and reaching people who may be stranded in isolated areas.
Glacial collapse triggered massive devastation
The disaster unfolded on Wednesday after an ice-rock avalanche linked to a glacial collapse near the Nepal-Tibet border unleashed a huge surge of water, mud and debris downstream.
The force of the flooding caused widespread destruction across central Nepal, sweeping through settlements and damaging roads, bridges and other vital infrastructure.
Several hydropower stations were also damaged or washed away, adding to the scale of the destruction caused by the disaster.
Rescue operation enters critical phase
With the fifth day of search operations underway, rescuers are racing against time to locate survivors and recover bodies buried beneath debris or carried away by floodwaters.
The large number of people still reported missing has made the operation increasingly challenging, particularly in areas where infrastructure has been severely damaged.
Authorities and rescue personnel continue to work across the affected districts as Nepal confronts one of its deadliest recent flood disasters.
The death toll is expected to remain fluid as search teams gain access to more affected locations and continue recovery operations.
