Devastating flash floods triggered by a glacial collapse near the Nepal-Tibet border have killed at least 939 people in Nepal, with 3,925 individuals still reported missing. Rescue operations entered their sixth day on Monday as authorities continue to search for survivors and manage the recovery of victims. The disaster has also impacted Tibet, where Chinese state media reported 16 deaths and 546 missing, bringing the total regional toll to 955 dead and 4,471 missing.
Nepal has requested urgent international assistance, including specialized forensic equipment, DNA testing kits, and heavy rescue machinery, to manage the crisis. Foreign Secretary Amrit Bahadur Rai confirmed that unidentified remains have been buried according to established protocols to mitigate public health risks. Meanwhile, China has provided $2.2 million in financial aid while dismissing claims that its hydropower projects in Tibet contributed to the catastrophe.
Foreign nationals remain significantly affected, with 590 citizens from 39 countries reported missing in Nepal. Various Indian state governments and the Indian Embassy are actively coordinating with Nepali authorities to locate stranded citizens and facilitate the return of those rescued. Forensic teams from India are currently assisting with DNA analysis to help identify victims recovered from the floodwaters.
