Catastrophic floods and landslides in Nepal have left at least 148 individuals deceased.
Catastrophic flooding in Nepal has led to at least 148 reported deaths, with approximately 55 individuals still missing, as per authorities' statements. The flood-inducing downpours began in Nepal, a Himalayan nation, late on Thursday. In response, the administration pledged free medical treatment for the injured and relief aid for affected families.
Close to half of the fatalities occurred in and around Kathmandu, the capital. The region has experienced significant damage due to the flooding and landslides. Local media described Kathmandu's rainfall as the worst in decades. Across the nation, the rainfall predominantly impacted central and eastern regions. Near Kathmandu, multiple buses were lost to landslides, with the recovery of at least 35 deceased individuals from the vehicles reported by authorities.
"The rescue efforts for the missing continue while affected families are being relocated. This process might take a few more days," stated police spokesman Dan Bahadur Karki to dpa. Around 100 individuals sustained injuries, and over 3,600 residents were evacuated, according to the police.
The aggressive monsoon rain has resulted in significant road and bridge damage and momentarily disrupted domestic flights, as per authorities' reports. Many paths leading to Kathmandu are obstructed by landslides. In certain areas, power and internet connections were intermittently disrupted. Schools across the country will be closed at the start of the week, as announced by the Ministry of Education. Despite noticeable improvements in the weather, authorities predict further rainfall in specific areas of the nation. Nepal's mountainous topography and significant rivers make it susceptible to natural disasters.
Extensive damage and casualties frequently occur due to the intense rainfall that leads to flooding and landslides during the monsoon season in South Asia, which typically lasts from June to September. Yes, despite the devastating consequences, the rain is beneficial for agriculture, on which a significant portion of the population relies.
The police spokesman shared that the rescue operations for the missing individuals are ongoing, and the relocation of affected families might take a few more days. Given the heavy rainfall, at least 35 bodies have been recovered from the landslide-stricken buses near Kathmandu.
