Kathmandu: More than 800 people are missing in Nepal after a devastating flash flood swept through communities near the Nepal-China border, with authorities saying a glacier collapse and debris flow triggered the disaster. At least 165 bodies have been recovered in Nepal, while rescue teams continue searching for survivors in the affected Himalayan region.
The disaster struck on Wednesday along the Bhote Koshi and Trishuli river systems, sending a powerful torrent of water, mud, rocks and debris downstream. The sudden surge caused widespread destruction, damaging homes, roads, bridges and other vital infrastructure.
Nepal Glacier Collapse Triggers Massive Flash Flood
According to the latest assessment, the lower section of a Himalayan glacier collapsed into a valley, generating a huge debris flow that entered the river system and produced the devastating Nepal flash flood. Initial reports had suggested an earthquake may have triggered the event, but the US Geological Survey later concluded that the seismic energy was generated by the collapse itself rather than a conventional earthquake.
The flood hit areas around Rasuwa district, close to the border with China’s Tibet region. A major crossing at Gyirong was also affected as water and debris surged through the valley, disrupting transportation and communications.
The scale of the disaster has made rescue operations extremely challenging. Mountainous terrain, damaged roads, heavy sediment and continuing difficult weather conditions are hampering access to some affected areas.
More Than 800 Missing as Rescue Operation Continues
Nepal’s authorities have reported 826 people missing, including security personnel, local residents and tourists. Officials said hundreds of foreign nationals are also among those whose whereabouts remain unknown.
The National Emergency Operation Centre said search teams have recovered 165 bodies from several districts, while more than 100 people have been rescued. Emergency personnel are continuing operations in Rasuwa, Nuwakot, Dhading, Chitwan and other affected areas.
The disaster has particularly affected tourists and pilgrims travelling through the Himalayan region. Reports indicate that hundreds of foreign visitors are among those missing, adding an international dimension to the rescue effort.
Nepal Flood Causes Widespread Destruction
The Nepal glacier collapse sent enormous quantities of water and debris through populated areas, sweeping away sections of roads and bridges and damaging electricity infrastructure.
Communities downstream were given warnings to move to safer locations as authorities assessed the possibility of further flooding. Rescue teams have been using helicopters and other emergency resources to reach people stranded in remote areas.
The disaster has also disrupted an important route connecting Nepal with Tibet, affecting cross-border movement and local economic activity.
International Support Mobilised
The severity of the Nepal flash flood has prompted international concern, with neighbouring countries and international organisations offering assistance. Rescue and relief teams are working alongside Nepalese authorities as efforts continue to locate missing people and provide emergency supplies.
The United Nations has also said that supplies and teams are being sent to affected areas.
Officials have urged the public to rely on verified government information as search and rescue operations remain underway and casualty figures could change.
The disaster has once again highlighted the vulnerability of Himalayan communities to sudden glacier-related events and extreme flooding. With hundreds still missing, authorities are continuing the search while working to restore access to devastated areas.
