Nepal mulling steps to determine status of flood, landslide victims, says govt

The government of Nepal is contemplating legal actions to ascertain the status of victims affected by recent floods and landslides, according to a recent statement. This comes as floods and debris flow triggered by an ice and rock collapse in Tibet on August 26 reportedly claimed the lives of over 1,450 individuals, with thousands still unaccounted for.

Malaysian foreign ministry officials revealed that the proposed measures are dependent on Nepal's domestic legal procedures and have not yet been put into effect. They further added that the Malaysian embassy in Kathmandu will maintain communication with the Nepalese authorities to clarify the necessary processes and documentation should the measures be enacted.

The Malaysian government also pledged to engage with Nepalese authorities and coordinate with Malaysian agencies regarding the relevant procedures. A recent meeting held by Wisma Putra, the Malaysian foreign ministry, saw 95 next of kin, family members, and representatives of 55 Malaysians who were uncontactable following the calamities in Nepal.

During the meeting, held to provide updates and address queries, representatives from various agencies like the Malaysian Special Search and Rescue Team, police, and the Malaysian embassy in Nepal, Beijing, China, among others, offered updates on their respective areas of responsibility. Counsellors from the Malaysian social welfare department were also present to support family members throughout the session.

The ministry emphasized the importance of respecting the privacy of affected families and cautioned against speculation regarding individuals whose status remains unconfirmed. The floods and debris flow, caused by an ice and rock collapse in the Lhende Khola's upper catchment in Tibet, resulted in more than 1,450 deaths, with a significant number of people still missing.