A catastrophic flash flood in the Himalayan region has devastated parts of Nepal and Tibet, with the disaster leaving at least 273 people dead and more than 1,300 people missing across the affected areas, according to the latest reports. The flooding followed a glacier collapse in the Himalayas and sent a massive torrent of water, mud and rocks through communities along the Nepal-China border.
The disaster has caused extensive destruction to homes, roads and bridges. In Nepal, rescue teams are working in extremely difficult terrain, with damaged infrastructure making several areas difficult to reach. Helicopters are being used to evacuate survivors and transport injured people to Kathmandu.
The disaster has also affected foreign tourists and pilgrims. Reports indicate that more than 500 foreigners, including Indian nationals, are among those reported missing. Indian authorities and the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu are coordinating efforts to trace Indians who remain unaccounted for.
India launches major relief operation
India has responded rapidly to the crisis. Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Nepal Prime Minister Balendra Shah and conveyed India’s condolences and readiness to provide all possible humanitarian assistance.
India initially sent around 10 tonnes of humanitarian assistance and essential medicines aboard an Indian Air Force aircraft. On Thursday, a second consignment was dispatched, bringing the announced relief assistance to 37.5 tonnes. The supplies include medicines, food packets and disaster-relief materials.
India is simultaneously watching its own border areas. The National Disaster Response Force has deployed 20 teams in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, while authorities remain in contact with the two state governments. So far, officials say there has been no adverse impact from the Nepal floods in the Indian border areas, but monitoring continues.
What caused the disaster?
Early scientific assessments point to a glacier collapse/ice-rock avalanche as the trigger. A huge volume of water and debris suddenly moved through the Himalayan valleys, creating an exceptionally destructive flood. The event highlights the growing vulnerability of the Himalayan region to glacial instability and extreme weather.
The situation remains fluid, with rescue teams continuing to search for missing people.