Nepal Flood Death Toll Surpasses 1,100; Tens of Thousands Search for Missing
Nepal's flood death toll reached 1,114 with 3,916 missing. The government is shifting focus to rehabilitation efforts.
The death toll from massive flash floods along the Nepal-Tibet border has climbed to 1,114 in Nepal, officials announced Wednesday, as the nation's leader declared a shift in government focus toward rehabilitation.
These devastating floods, which occurred in the Bhotekoshi River region, have swept away towns and structures, leaving a trail of destruction. The disaster has prompted a large-scale search for thousands still unaccounted for, highlighting the immense scale of the tragedy.
Nepal's National Disaster Management Authority reported that the number of missing people remained at 3,916 as of Wednesday morning. The U.S. State Department indicated it was tracking approximately 75 Americans who were unaccounted for in the cross-border region, with 14 having reached safety.
Prime Minister Balendra Shah stated Tuesday that the government's efforts would transition from search, rescue, and relief distribution to rehabilitation. He acknowledged the crucial support from local and international organizations in the ongoing response.
As of Wednesday morning, over 1,114 bodies had been recovered in Nepal, an increase from the previous day's count. More than 21,000 personnel from the national police, army, and armed police forces are engaged in search and rescue operations. Updates from the Nepal Police showed teams working in affected areas like Timure, with images depicting flood victims in body bags and officers in protective gear.
Emergency responders have provided medical treatment to at least 4,070 people across several districts. Meanwhile, Chinese state media reported that Chinese officials confirmed 16 deaths and 546 missing individuals on their side of the border.
Prime Minister Shah also detailed the extensive damage to infrastructure, noting that at least 48 suspension bridges were damaged, with 28 requiring complete replacement. Nepal Army helicopters have been deployed to transport deceased individuals from affected areas.
In Kathmandu, relatives of those still missing participated in symbolic funerals, cremating effigies made of Kush grass in accordance with Hindu rites at the Pashupatinath temple, underscoring the deep emotional toll of the disaster.
This article was written by AI based on publicly available news reporting. Original reporting by the linked source.
