Nepal Floods: Devastating Toll Crosses 630, Nearly 3,000 Missing

Nepal is struggling with one of its worst natural calamities as a deadly flash flood hit the Himalayan region bordering Tibet on August 26. This natural disaster, caused by the breakage of glaciers and an outflow of huge rocks, ice, and debris, has resulted in the deaths of at least 633 people in Nepal and Tibet, while nearly 3,000 people remain missing.

Nepal Floods Leave Hundreds Dead, Thousands Missing

According to recent reports, 626 people have perished in Nepal, while seven have died in Tibet, bringing the total number of deaths to 633. In Nepal, 2,426 people are still missing, while in Tibet, there are 554 missing people, according to Chinese authorities. This makes a total of about 2,980 missing people.

This disaster has impacted regions such as Rasuwa district and the areas near the Bhote Koshi and Trishuli rivers. The flooding of water and debris destroyed homes, bridges, roads, and other structures in the process. Additionally, the important Gyirong-Kerung border post, which links Nepal and Tibet, has suffered damage.

Glacier Collapse Triggers Massive Floods

The disaster happened after the collapse of the glacier, causing an avalanche of ice and rocks that led to flooding in the rivers below. This caused massive destruction to settlements and the destruction of some of the hydroelectric projects.

Upper Trishuli-1 hydroelectric project has become the primary point for rescue operations since more than 100 people are reported to be trapped there. Extremely difficult terrain in the Himalayas, destruction of roads and bridges and muddy conditions have posed difficulties to the rescue operation.

Rescue Efforts Continue Across Nepal

According to recent reports, more than 3,700 individuals have been rescued from Nepal. Air support, drones, boats, and ground teams have been employed to rescue people stranded in remote areas.

Nevertheless, the rescue efforts have experienced interruptions due to bad weather conditions and fear of additional floods. The emergence of a new glacial lake in the affected region has caused worries of yet another flood surge.

320 Indian Nationals Remain Missing

The disaster has also affected a considerable number of Indian citizens who happen to be pilgrims going to the Kailash Mansarovar region. According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) of India, 320 Indian citizens are still missing or are untraceable, besides 100-plus Indian nationals who have gone missing.

On the other hand, it has been reported that about 400 Indian citizens stranded in China have been reported safe, whereas 149 of them have made their way to Nepal. A few Indian tourists have also been saved and taken back to India.

India Steps Up Aid to Flood-Hit Nepal

India has shown a marked increase in its aid to flood-stricken Nepal. India has dispatched relief items like tents, blankets, hygiene kits, solar lamps, and medicines. Moreover, India has sent more relief aid along with a team of eleven doctors and a team specifically trained for rescue missions in tunnels.

India has also offered assistance from its National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and Bailey bridges to assist Nepal in restoring connectivity and rescue missions.

Nepal Faces Long Road to Recovery

Apart from the loss of life, floods have resulted in extensive damage to roads, bridges, hydropower projects, houses, and trading facilities. Over 90,000 people have been impacted by the situation, while the government of Nepal believes that rebuilding the infrastructure may cost between $4–$5 billion.

The number of deaths is over 100, and nearly 3,000 individuals are missing, which means that there is much to be done before Nepal can move forward. The task at hand is to find survivors, identify victims, provide food, shelter and medical aid, while at the same time restoring infrastructure.

Also Read: Devastating Flash Flood Hits Nepal-Tibet Border, Know More