Nepal's 'Unprecedented Disaster': PM Shah Assures Rescue Ops as Flood Toll Reaches 165
Nepal's Prime Minister Balendra Shah has described the flash floods devastating parts of the country as an "unprecedented disaster" and assured that the government is carrying out rescue and relief operations "as quickly and effectively as possible".
The floods, triggered by intense rainfall and landslides, have wreaked havoc across several districts near the Nepal-Tibet border, claiming at least 165 lives in Nepal and Tibet so far. Hundreds of people, including many foreign tourists, remain missing.
In a statement released today, Shah said the Nepali Army has so far rescued 116 people from Timure in Rasuwa district. Of these, 95 are Nepali citizens and 21 are Indian nationals. Seven Nepali citizens trapped inside a tunnel were also rescued. The rescued individuals are being transported to safer areas and provided with medical assistance where needed.
Rescue flights have been operating since 6:30 AM this morning, the Prime Minister said, with more than 15 flights conducted so far. Additional helicopters have been kept on standby for rescue operations. "At a time when the country is facing this unprecedented disaster, the government is engaged in rescue and relief operations as quickly and effectively as possible. With the support and cooperation of the entire country, Nepalis around the world, and the international community, we are collectively facing this difficult situation," he said.
Shah said that during rescue operations, priority will be given to critically ill people, the elderly, women, and children for evacuation by helicopter. Efforts are underway to rapidly deliver essential relief supplies, including generators, portable mobile towers, medical supplies, tents, and machines for cutting iron and stone. "Temporary arrangements for mobile network connectivity and mobile phone charging will soon be established in the disaster-affected areas to help people maintain communication," he said. The government said it is also arranging temporary shelter for displaced families.
A temporary camp has been set up in Nuwakot, with arrangements for food and drinking water, the Prime Minister said. He also noted that a drone survey of all affected locations is in its final stage, which would help facilitate more efficient and effective rescue and relief operations.
"I appeal to everyone to remain patient and calm, wait for rescue and relief operations, and cooperate in confronting this disaster. The entire state machinery is mobilised to carry out rescue operations as soon as possible. With hope and confidence, we must all remain united and confront this disaster with determination. I express my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who is extending their cooperation and standing together with us during this difficult time," he said.
Nepal Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal, speaking at the NDTV World Anviksha Summit in Kathmandu, said that at least 300 Indian nationals – mostly Mansarovar pilgrims – have been reported missing. In all, around 500 foreign nationals are out of contact at present, the minister said.
Video footage from the affected areas showed homes, bridges, and roads swept away, leaving behind mud-filled tracks. The flooding has disrupted connectivity in several remote settlements, with many areas inaccessible by road. According to officials, two buses of the 'India-Nepal Friendship Bus Service' have been stranded in the floods. Both buses are carrying 25 to 30 passengers, and all of them are reported to be safe.
The Nepali government has mobilised the entire state machinery for rescue operations and is coordinating with international agencies and neighbouring countries. The Prime Minister expressed gratitude for the support and cooperation extended by various quarters, saying the country is facing the crisis with unity and resolve.
