Nepal floods claim more than 50 lives, many missing

Flash floods in Nepal's Himalayan border regions have claimed over 50 lives, with hundreds of people still missing. A police official reported that 160 bodies have been recovered, but many remain unaccounted for. The disaster was triggered by an avalanche of ice and rock, causing widespread damage to villages and infrastructure.

Over 750 people, including 133 Indian nationals, are still unaccounted for. Nepal has appealed for assistance from India and China for the rescue efforts, according to Sasmit Pokharel, a spokesperson for the Nepali government. The worst-affected area is the district of Nuwakot, where dozens of multi-storied buildings, trucks, and vans were buried under mud.

Authorities have warned residents to stay away from the banks of the Bhotekoshi, Trishuli, and Narayani rivers. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Nepal's Prime Minister Balendra Shah, expressing condolences and offering humanitarian assistance. He stated that India stands in solidarity with Nepal during this difficult time and that Indian teams are coordinating closely with Nepali authorities for rescue and relief efforts.

The Indian Embassy in Nepal is actively working with Nepali authorities to facilitate early rescue and relief for Indian nationals affected by the floods. Meanwhile, Nepal's Embassy in India reports that the country's security agencies, disaster-management authorities, and local administrations have been mobilized for the search and rescue, evacuation, emergency medical assistance, and relief operations. The cause of the disaster is currently under assessment.