Nepal warns of fresh floods as Bhote Koshi surges

Kathmandu, Nepal finds itself on high alert as the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA) issues a dire warning over the rapidly rising Bhote Koshi River. The surge in the river's roar and water flow has been detected, prompting authorities to urge residents and relief teams to tread with extreme caution. Three major downstream districts, already scarred by the devastating flash floods of August 26, are now under heightened scrutiny.

Communities residing near the Rasuwa riverbank, particularly those close to the Nepal-China border, are directed to monitor water levels meticulously. Emergency services and local administration units along the river basin have been put on standby in Nuwakot and Dhading districts. The District Administration Office in Rasuwa has received reports of the heightened flood flow, prompting a call for vigilance in the river's vicinity.

The death toll from the catastrophic Rasuwa Bhote Koshi flash floods has tragically climbed to 675, with emergency teams tirelessly recovering bodies and human remains across various downstream districts. As of the latest update, 2,418 individuals are unaccounted for or missing. Additionally, 287 Indian nationals and 128 Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) remain missing or out of contact in the affected zones.

However, a glimmer of hope emerged as four Indian nationals trapped at a hydropower project in Rasuwa were successfully rescued today, being transported to Kathmandu.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed the rescue of these individuals and reported that a total of 88 Indian nationals have been rescued from the flood-affected regions so far. Notably, 120 Indian nationals have already crossed into Nepal from China earlier on Saturday. As search and emergency operations intensify across Nepal, 120 Indian nationals have managed to cross into Nepal from China, bringing some semblance of relief to the ongoing crisis.