The devastating flash floods in Nepal have claimed 616 lives, with hundreds still missing as rescue operations continue across multiple districts.
The floods, triggered by a glacial collapse in Tibet that swept through the Bhote Koshi River, have left a trail of destruction across central Nepal.
According to officials, as of 6 a.m. Saturday, police recovered 233 bodies in Chitwan, 158 in Nawalparasi East, 48 in Gorkha, 47 in Nawalparasi West, 45 in Dhading, 41 in Nuwakot, 31 in Tanahun, and 13 in Rasuwa. Search teams are working with residents and agencies to locate missing persons, clear debris, and reopen blocked roads to facilitate relief efforts.
Rescued individuals are being shifted from high-risk zones to safer areas, while officials warn that the death toll may rise further as operations continue.
Initially, Nepal’s government had declined foreign assistance, but later agreed to accept limited international help. India has stepped in with humanitarian aid, dispatching rescue teams and medical experts. On Friday, India’s third relief flight arrived carrying 10 tonnes of supplies, including generator sets, dignity kits, food packets, and water purification tablets. Earlier, India had sent 37.5 tonnes of HADR material, medicines, and food packets to support Nepal’s relief efforts.
The tragedy has underscored the vulnerability of Himalayan communities to climate-induced disasters, with international cooperation now seen as crucial to saving lives and rebuilding affected regions.
