Hard-hit areas in Nepal still inaccessible - aid group

Action Aid has reported that some of the most severely affected regions in Nepal remain inaccessible following severe flooding and landslides that have caused significant destruction along the border with Tibet. The disaster authority of Nepal has confirmed that over 900 people have lost their lives, while the number of people missing has risen to 4,247.

Anish Raj Shresta, the communications manager for Action Aid, stated that persistent rain is making it challenging to reach the impacted areas. He emphasized that one of the hardest-hit regions is currently not accessible by road due to the extensive damage. Shresta explained that the monsoon is ongoing, and alternative routes are being utilized, but vehicles are stuck in the mud, causing further difficulties.

The focus of Nepali officials is on reaching the workers believed to be trapped inside several hydropower project tunnels blocked by mud and rock debris. The government is actively working on drilling a hole in the tunnel to attempt a rescue, but the situation appears grim. The Nepali army has made a breakthrough at the tunnel intake, yet the outcome remains uncertain as reports suggest the tunnels may be filled with water.

Shresta attributed the flooding to a glacial collapse, suggesting that it aligns with the patterns of climate change. He noted that while the cause is clear, scientists will ultimately determine the extent of the impact, which he believes is a direct result of global warming.