Image Source: CNBC
World – Several South Africans are among the hundreds still unaccounted for after devastating flash floods tore through Nepal’s mountainous Rasuwa district, with the death toll now estimated at more than 150, according to reports, and expected to rise further as search operations continue along the Bhote Koshi River.
The Nepal Tourism Board has confirmed that more than 300 travellers are missing, including four South African nationals, with the nationalities of many others still unconfirmed.
Footage shared online shows a wall of water rushing through riverside settlements and sweeping away multi-storey buildings within minutes, prompting the deployment of the Nepali Army, Armed Guard Force and Nepal Guard, who have used helicopters to rescue more than 250 civilians from areas cut off by the floodwaters.
Nepal Appeals for Unity as Rescue Operations Intensify
Nepal’s Prime Minister Balendra Shah has appealed for national unity, assuring citizens that the state will take full responsibility for rescue, treatment and shelter while authorities work to rebuild damaged infrastructure and resettle displaced families.
Shah said the government has allocated 100 hospital beds at Bir Hospital and the National Trauma Centre in Kathmandu, with medical teams, the Nepal Scouts, and the World Health Organisation sending doctors, rescue workers, and health supplies to the affected areas.
“Please be patient. The government takes full responsibility for your rescue, treatment, food, and shelter. In times of such a disaster, we all need to stand together,” Shah said.
World Leaders Pledge Support for Relief Efforts
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke directly with Shah, offering condolences and pledging support as rescue efforts persist.
India’s embassy in Kathmandu says it is working with the Nepali government to assist affected Indian nationals. In contrast, authorities in bordering Indian regions have been placed on high alert over fears that floodwaters could flow downstream.
“Spoke to Prime Minister Balendra Shah and conveyed condolences on the loss of lives due to the floods in Nepal. The people of India stand in solidarity with their sisters and brothers in Nepal at this difficult time. India is ready to provide all possible humanitarian assistance to Nepal. Our teams are coordinating closely on rescue and relief efforts,” Modi said in a post on X.
Casualties have also been reported at the Gyirong border crossing in Tibet, according to reports, with Chinese President Xi Jinping calling for an all-out search and rescue response.
At the United Nations, Secretary-General António Guterres has pledged continued support for Nepal’s government-led relief operation, with UN teams already mobilising supplies and personnel.
“The Secretary-General is saddened by the severe flooding in Nepal and China, which has claimed many lives, left people missing and caused widespread destruction,” his spokesperson said.
