Daijiworld Media Network - Kathmandu
Kathmandu, Aug 27: At least 180 people have been killed and more than 1,300 remain missing after devastating flash floods and landslides struck areas along the Nepal-Tibet border on Wednesday, leaving a trail of destruction across the Himalayan region.
In Nepal, police said 177 bodies have been recovered, while 823 people remain unaccounted for, including 517 foreign tourists from several countries. In Tibet, Chinese authorities reported three deaths and 558 people missing, including 260 foreigners.
The disaster struck after a glacier collapse and resulting debris flow unleashed a massive surge of water, mud, ice and boulders along the Bhote Koshi and Trishuli river systems. The flooding swept away homes, vehicles, bridges, roads and infrastructure, with several villages badly affected. The US Geological Survey has indicated that the disaster was caused by a glacial collapse rather than an earthquake.
Rescue operations continued on Thursday amid difficult conditions. The Nepalese Army has been using helicopters to evacuate survivors and transport injured people to Kathmandu, while authorities have warned residents in vulnerable areas to move to safer locations. There are also concerns about possible further flooding caused by blockages in river channels.
Among those reported missing are nationals from India, the United States, Ukraine, Malaysia, Australia, Britain, Canada and several other countries. Nepal's tourism authorities said 517 foreign nationals were among those still out of contact in the country, with Indians accounting for the largest group at 178.
India has stepped up its humanitarian response. It initially sent 10 tonnes of Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief material and essential medicines to Nepal aboard an Indian Air Force C-130J aircraft. The supplies included temporary shelters, blankets, hygiene kits, solar lamps and medicines. A second consignment carrying 37.5 tonnes of relief material, medicines and food packets was also dispatched on Thursday.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to Nepal Prime Minister Balendra Shah and conveyed India's readiness to provide all possible humanitarian assistance. India said its teams were coordinating closely with Nepalese authorities on rescue and relief operations.
The United States has announced $500,000 in emergency assistance for flood-affected communities through Catholic Relief Services. The assistance will support emergency shelters, relief supplies and water, sanitation and hygiene services. Washington is also deploying a disaster response adviser to the region.
The Indian Embassy in Kathmandu has issued emergency contact numbers for assistance and information concerning Indian nationals affected by the floods. People requiring assistance can contact +977 985 131 6807 or +977 970 910 7500.
The Nepal Tourism Board has also issued emergency contacts for tourists and others seeking help. The toll-free number is 1234, the emergency hotline is 1144, and the Tourist Police can be reached at 9851289445.
Meanwhile, authorities in India's Bihar and Uttar Pradesh have been placed on high alert following the floods in neighbouring Nepal, particularly because of the impact on the Gandak river basin. Officials have begun precautionary measures, including preparations to move people from vulnerable areas as water levels and flood risks are monitored.
The catastrophe has triggered an international relief response, with several countries and humanitarian organisations mobilising assistance as rescue teams continue their search for survivors and missing persons.