Kathmandu: Nepal’s devastating flash floods have claimed at least 675 lives, while nearly 2,400 people remain missing as rescue teams continue operations amid fresh rainfall and renewed concerns over rising river levels.
According to Nepal Police, bodies have been recovered from eight districts, with Chitwan, Nawalparasi East and Nawalparasi West reporting some of the highest casualties. The large-scale disaster has prompted the deployment of more than 15,000 security personnel across affected regions.
More than 4,400 people have so far been rescued or evacuated, including 261 foreign tourists who had reportedly lost contact amid the chaos. Authorities are continuing to use helicopters to reach stranded communities and transport essential relief material to areas that remain difficult to access by road.
Fresh warning issued for Bhote Koshi River
Amid renewed rainfall, Nepalese authorities have issued a fresh warning for the Bhote Koshi River. The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority has reported an increase in the river’s flow and advised people living in nearby areas to remain vigilant.
The Rasuwa District Administration has specifically urged residents in parts of Rasuwa, Nuwakot and Dhading located along the Bhote Koshi to exercise caution. Officials said further information would be issued depending on developments in the river’s water level.
The Bhote Koshi is a swift-moving Himalayan river that originates in Tibet, making rising water levels a particular concern for communities located along its course.
Rescue work resumes in Rasuwa
In badly affected Rasuwa district, search and rescue activities resumed after being interrupted by rain and poor visibility caused by fog. Emergency teams are continuing to search for people who remain unaccounted for while also delivering assistance to affected residents.
The disaster has also caused significant disruption to Nepal’s road network. The Mugling-Kathmandu highway, an important route linking the capital with other parts of the country, reopened after remaining shut since Wednesday. However, several other roads continue to remain blocked or difficult to navigate.
Situation remains critical across border
The devastation has also extended into neighbouring China. Authorities have reported seven deaths on the Chinese side of the border, while more than 550 people are said to be missing.
With rainfall continuing in parts of the region and river levels being closely monitored, authorities remain on alert for further flooding. Rescue agencies are simultaneously working to locate missing people, evacuate those in vulnerable locations and ensure essential supplies reach communities cut off by the disaster.
