Rescuers dig into tunnel as missing toll from Nepal, China flood nears 3,000

Rescuers in Nepal and China are working tirelessly to locate thousands of people missing following a catastrophic flood caused by a glacial collapse on the Himalayan border. As of now, 691 bodies have been recovered, with reports suggesting some victims may have been swept downstream as far as India. The disaster, which occurred on Wednesday morning, is believed to have affected over 3,000 people.

The Nepali army is currently focused on rescuing workers trapped in a tunnel at the Trishuli 3A hydroelectric site, though efforts are being hampered by heavy rains and rising river waters. Over 100 workers may still be alive in such tunnels, with rescue teams urged to exercise caution. UN climate chief Simon Steill warned that climate change is increasing the risk of such disasters.

Survivors are waiting anxiously to learn the fate of their missing loved ones, and the prospect of rebuilding their lives from nothing is daunting. The disaster has struck the settlements near the river hard, with Buddhi Ram Dangol describing the loss as overwhelming. Over 933 hydropower workers and 517 foreigners are among the missing, including trekkers and Hindu pilgrims.

International aid is pouring in, with the US and Canada contributing $3.6 million each, the UK offering $6.8 million, and the UN providing $2.5 million in emergency funding. Nepal's economy is already under pressure, with Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal appealing for specialized assistance to aid the reconstruction efforts.