How are search operations progressing in Nepal, a week after deadly flash flood?

A week after the deadly flash flood in Nepal, search operations continue to progress in a challenging environment. An emergency relief team from South Korea arrived in Nepal to aid in the rescue efforts. Over 1,000 people lost their lives due to the disaster, with thousands more still missing. The flood, triggered by a suspected glacier collapse, brought a deluge of ice, rock, mud, and debris cascading down the mountains on August 26.

The United Nations Development Programme reported that the disaster created 2.2 million tons of debris, including parts of buildings, rocks, and sediment. The flood severely impacted Nepal's infrastructure, damaging eight existing and four under-construction power projects, nearly 50 suspension bridges, and 31 motorable bridges. Officials estimate that Nepal may require US$4 billion to US$5 billion for reconstruction.

Rescue efforts have been intense, with over 9,200 army troops deployed on the ground, alongside heavy machinery, helicopters, and excavators. Over 9,200 army troops are assisting in rescue operations, managing bodies, and clearing blocked roads. Presently, the key focus is on reaching trapped individuals in the tunnels of devastated hydroelectric plants.

So far, 279 people have been rescued from these sites. Nepal has reached out for specialized and technical assistance in areas where the country lacks expertise. Foreign countries have responded by dispatching aid worth over US$42 billion, including specialised rescue teams. India and China have sent tunnel experts and forensic teams, while South Korea will send a 44-member emergency relief team.

China has also pledged to send more DNA identification experts and supplies. In Tibet, heavy machinery and equipment reached the worst-affected Gyirong border crossing for the first time after China rebuilt the washed-away road. Rescue teams equipped with life-detection devices and search dogs are being deployed in the region.