European Union joins aid efforts after deadly Nepal floods

Hyderabad (Aug 27): Families have been unable to reach more than 50 Malaysian tourists amidst the recent devastating floods in Nepal. "We are still gathering information on the unreachable Malaysians. Family members have been unable to establish contact with more than 50 Malaysians," said Mohd Firdaus Azman, the charge d'affaires of the Malaysian Embassy in Kathmandu.

The Bhote Koshi River's flood has affected road access, and the Nepalese government has deployed helicopters for search-and-rescue operations. Communication infrastructure damage is impeding the retrieval of information on missing Malaysians. Malaysians seeking assistance should email passport and travel details to the Malaysian Embassy at mwkathmandu@kln.gov.my.

As of Wednesday night, the death toll surpassed 160, with hundreds, including tourists and Nepalese security personnel, still unaccounted for. At least 142 Indians are among those reported missing. An avalanche triggered the flood, which also claimed at least 142 Indians. A magnitude-5.2 seismic event near the Nepal-China border, initially reported as a magnitude 4.4 earthquake, was later confirmed to be a glacial collapse and debris flow, according to the US Geological Survey.

The flood has resulted in the destruction of 19 bridges and 40 kilometers of highway. Chinese President Xi Jinping has pledged full efforts to locate missing individuals across the border. India has airlifted relief materials and deployed helicopters for rescue operations. Bangladesh's Prime Minister has offered Nepal assistance, while Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister expressed solidarity with Nepal.

Flood alerts have been issued for India's Bihar and Uttar Pradesh states, with the Trishuli River's water level rise in Furke Khola potentially affecting India's Gandak River downstream.