Flood devastation in Nepal after heavy rains and landslides left 626 dead, thousands missing, and rescue operations disrupted (Img: Social Media)
Kathmandu: The devastating floods along the Nepal-China border have turned into a massive humanitarian crisis, with the death toll rising to 626 and 2,478 people reported missing. Rescue operations in several affected areas have been slowed after heavy rainfall caused river levels to rise further.
Authorities are facing major challenges as damaged roads, broken bridges and unstable terrain continue to hamper relief efforts.
Rescue operations in the Trishuli River region were temporarily suspended after heavy rain increased water levels and forced authorities to stop helicopter operations.
People living near the river have been evacuated as a precautionary measure amid fears of further flooding.
Nepal Prime Minister Balen Shah said more than 15,000 security personnel have been deployed for rescue operations. So far, thousands of people have been rescued, including workers trapped inside hydropower tunnels.
India has intensified its support for flood-hit Nepal by sending emergency supplies, medical teams and technical assistance.
The Ministry of External Affairs said around 320 Indians remain uncontactable in Nepal, while several stranded Indians have been safely brought back.
India has delivered more than 57 tonnes of emergency supplies through military aircraft, including relief material, medicines and essential equipment.
New Delhi has also offered Bailey bridges and technical teams to restore connectivity after floods destroyed roads and bridges.
Nepal has requested India and China to provide Bailey bridges to reconnect disaster-hit regions.
The bridges are expected to help restore transport links where major routes have been damaged by floods and landslides.
A new threat has emerged near the Rasuwagadhi border area after debris blocked the Lhende River, creating a large artificial lake.
Chinese authorities said the water body had already accumulated millions of cubic metres of water, raising concerns of another sudden flood if the barrier collapses.
Also Read: India’s Big Rescue Push for Nepal: 62 Tonnes Aid Sent After Deadly Floods Kill 584
Scientists are investigating whether a glacier collapse and rock avalanche triggered the massive flood surge.
The combination of ice, rocks, mud and water reportedly swept through Himalayan settlements, destroying homes, bridges and infrastructure.
With more rain forecast, authorities remain on alert as rescue teams continue searching for missing people across the affected mountain regions.
