Funerals in Nepal for missing, a week after deadly floods

In Nepal, families have conducted symbolic funeral ceremonies to liberate the souls of loved ones missing since flash floods swept through their villages and homes a week ago. Emergency teams have recovered over 1,000 bodies, with nearly 4,500 people still missing after a glacial collapse triggered a massive wave of ice, rocks, and debris that surged down the China-Nepal border on August 26.

Relatives of some missing individuals have given up hope and performed last rites, believing it sets the soul free. Dolma Newar Tamang, who lost her husband en route to China, expressed her desire for him to find peace. Despite ongoing search efforts, particularly in hydropower tunnels blocked by debris, rescuers remain hopeful for survivors.

Nepali Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal expressed cautious optimism, stating that miracles can happen, though he urged against complacency. Prime Minister Balendra Shah warned that the disaster underscores the escalating risks in the Himalayan region due to climate change. Scientists emphasize that the Himalayas are warming rapidly, accelerating glacier melt that supplies water to millions.

Nepal's economy faces pressure, and reconstruction costs could reach billions of dollars. Chinese reports indicated 16 deaths and 546 missing, bringing the total to 1,066 dead and 4,462 missing, including 17 bodies found in Indian rivers. Despite restrictions on Chinese information, Tibetan advocacy groups remain skeptical of China's account of the disaster.