**Nepal and China Intensify Rescue Operations Following Devastating Floods**
Nepal has significantly increased its rescue efforts in the wake of a catastrophic flash flood that struck its northern border with China, resulting in the loss of over 160 lives and leaving thousands missing. The disaster, which occurred early Wednesday morning, has devastated numerous towns and villages, prompting urgent action from both Nepalese and Chinese authorities.
Nepalese Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal reported on Thursday that thousands of families have been displaced, with the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority confirming that 826 individuals remain unaccounted for. The Nuwakot and Rasuwa districts have been identified as the hardest hit areas, where the impact of the flood has been particularly severe. Among the missing are 44 personnel from the Nepalese Army, 28 police officers, and 13 members of the Armed Police Force.
In response to the crisis, the Nepalese Army, along with private helicopters, has been conducting rescue missions across the affected regions. According to Brigadier General Raja Ram Basnet, approximately 100 individuals have been rescued so far, including those trapped in the facilities of the Trishuli hydropower project. The army has also successfully airlifted at least eight foreign nationals to Kathmandu.
Videos shared by the army depict rescue operations in which personnel are seen assisting individuals trapped in thick mud that has engulfed many towns and villages. The scale of the destruction is evident from aerial footage, highlighting the challenges faced by rescue teams.
China has also mobilized resources to assist in the rescue efforts, particularly in the Tibet region, where 558 individuals are reported missing. The Chinese government dispatched a team of 111 emergency rescuers to Gyirong Port in Xizang, equipped with detection, life-saving, demolition, communication, and support equipment. The team was flown from Chengdu and landed at Dingri Airport in Shigatse, as many roads have been rendered impassable due to the flooding.
The People’s Liberation Army (PLA) has taken charge of the military rescue operations in the region, deploying troops specializing in aviation, medical support, transportation, and engineering. However, a barrier lake formed approximately 2.5 kilometers from Gyirong Port poses significant challenges to ongoing rescue efforts.
In addition to local citizens, Foreign Minister Khanal indicated that around 500 foreign nationals, many of whom were on a pilgrimage to the sacred site of Mansarovar in Tibet, are currently out of contact. The Nepalese government is actively communicating with foreign embassies to address the situation of the missing foreign nationals, emphasizing its commitment to their safety.
Nepalese Prime Minister Balendra Shah and Infrastructure Development Minister Sunil Lamsal have traveled to Bidur, Nuwakot, to meet with local officials. Their discussions will focus on relief and rehabilitation efforts, as well as strategies for restoring damaged infrastructure in the wake of the floods.
International assistance has begun to flow into Nepal, with India sending 10 tons of relief supplies, including temporary shelters, blankets, hygiene kits, solar lamps, and medicines. A second flight carrying additional food and medical supplies departed on Thursday morning. Both India and China have offered further assistance, pending an assessment of Nepal's emergency needs.
The United States and the World Bank have also extended their support, with the World Bank offering to mobilize up to NPR 25 billion (approximately $165 million) in emergency assistance for rescue and reconstruction efforts. Coordination among India, China, and the World Bank is expected to facilitate financial and logistical support for the affected regions.
As rescue operations continue, the focus remains on locating the missing individuals and providing relief to those impacted by this devastating natural disaster. The situation remains fluid, with authorities and international partners working tirelessly to address the immediate needs of affected communities.