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

Rescuers in Nepal and China worked through treacherous conditions on Sunday to locate thousands missing after a massive flood and landslide swept through the Himalayas, claiming at least 3,044 lives and confirming 750 deaths. The disaster struck the China-Nepal border on Wednesday, triggered by a glacial collapse that sent a wall of water and debris downstream.

Chinese rescuers were temporarily relocated to a safe location after a new lake formed due to a landslide, while Nepali army troops and engineers continued rescue efforts in a tunnel at the Trishuli 3A hydroelectric site. Rain and rising river waters hindered rescue operations, prompting Nepali authorities to urge caution. The disaster has affected vast energy infrastructure projects, with 933 hydropower workers among the missing in Nepal.

Chinese experts believe a glacier on the southern slope of Lirung Peak fractured, causing an ice-rock avalanche that traveled over 20 kilometers before crashing into Gyirong Port. UN climate chief Simon Steill highlighted the fragility of mountain environments in light of the disaster. Survivors face an uncertain wait to learn the fate of their missing relatives and the challenges of rebuilding their lives.

589 foreigners, including trekkers and Hindu pilgrims, remain unaccounted for in Nepal, with the Isha Foundation stating that 80 members were on a group trip in the area. The United States, Canada, the UK, and the UN have pledged financial aid, while Nepal's Foreign Minister urged specialized assistance, such as heavy-lift drones and forensic testing kits.

The deluge of ice and mud created hazardous lakes, with one posing a risk of further flooding. Both Nepal and China shared satellite and hydrological data to coordinate rescue efforts.