Nepal Flood Death Toll Rises to 1,250, Over 4,000 Still Missing

NUWAKOT, Sep 2: The death toll from devastating flash floods in Nepal and Tibet has climbed to 1,250, while more than 4,000 people remain missing as rescue teams continued operations amid rain, mud and debris across the Himalayan region.

Rescuers were searching for people believed to be trapped inside tunnels along the Bhotekoshi River and underground powerhouses in Nepal. Among those reported missing in Nepal, 583 are foreigners, authorities said.

Prime Minister Balendra Shah told the House of Representatives that the scale and nature of the disaster raised serious concerns over the growing risks faced by communities in the Himalayan region due to climate change. He said Nepal must strongly raise the issue of climate change-related disasters with the international community.

The joint security forces, including the Nepal Army, have rescued 11,993 people so far through helicopters and land routes. Around 21,314 security personnel have been deployed for search and rescue operations.

On the Chinese side, the death toll from the flash floods in Gyirong county of Tibet, near the Nepal border, rose to 21, with another 541 people still missing.

Families of missing residents held symbolic funerals as uncertainty continued over their fate following last week’s devastating floods.

International development partners, including the Asian Development Bank, World Bank, European Union and United Nations, have pledged assistance. Expert teams from India, China and South Korea are also being mobilised to support rescue efforts at hydropower sites. (Agencies)