Flood Devastation: Nearly 3,000 Missing in Nepal and China After Catastrophic Deluge

Rescue operations continue in Nepal and China as authorities grapple with the aftermath of a catastrophic flood that has left nearly 3,000 people missing. The disaster struck the Himalayan region with devastating force, sweeping through villages and severely impacting local infrastructure, particularly hydropower projects.

As of Saturday, official reports indicate that 633 bodies have been recovered, with fears that some victims may have been carried downstream into India. The Nepalese disaster management agency has added 933 hydropower workers to a growing list of missing persons, which already included trekkers and pilgrims on their way to Mount Kailash.

Survivors recount harrowing tales of loss and uncertainty. Buddhi Ram Dangol lamented, "All the settlements near the river were swept away. There is nothing left." Meanwhile, Samjhana Thing anxiously awaits news of her brother, hoping he is safe but fearing the worst.

The Red Cross estimates that up to 93,000 people have been affected by the floods, and the death toll may continue to rise as emergency teams work to locate survivors and deliver essential aid. The situation is complicated by the risk of further flooding, as the deluge has created large lakes that threaten ongoing rescue efforts.

On the Nepali side, the military is attempting to reach survivors trapped in a tunnel at the Trishuli 3A hydropower project. Army spokesman Raja Ram Basnet reported that two helicopters have been dispatched to assist in the rescue, although finding entry points to the tunnel has proven challenging.

In Tibet, Chinese authorities have suspended rescue operations in Gyirong due to renewed flooding risks. Nevertheless, reports indicate that some villagers have been rescued. Meanwhile, concerns remain for hundreds of foreign tourists, many of whom were on pilgrimage to Mount Kailash when the floods struck.

Source: www.dawn.com