More than 100 Indian nationals are among hundreds of people reported missing following a massive flash flood in Nepal’s Rasuwa district on Wednesday. The surge in the Bhote Koshi River, which struck near the Tibet border at approximately 9 am, has resulted in at least eight confirmed deaths and widespread destruction of infrastructure, including bridges and hydropower projects. Many of those unaccounted for are believed to be pilgrims traveling to Tibet for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.
Authorities have launched extensive search-and-rescue operations involving the Nepal Army, Armed Police Force, and Nepal Police, utilizing 14 helicopters, drones, and sniffer dogs. While the exact cause of the flooding remains under investigation, officials are examining reports of a potential landslide or glacial lake outburst on the Tibetan side of the border. The Nepal Tourism Board is currently verifying the preliminary list of missing persons in coordination with local agencies.
Disaster management authorities have issued high-alert warnings for several downstream districts, urging residents to avoid riverbanks and move to safer locations. The disaster has severely impacted regional trade routes and damaged multiple operational and under-construction hydropower facilities. Emergency contact numbers have been provided for those requiring assistance in the affected regions.
