Nepal flood update: The death toll from flash floods in Nepal has crossed 1,400. Amid the continuous recovery of bodies in flood-affected areas, relief and rescue teams are still searching for over 6,000 missing people. According to a bulletin issued by the Nepal Police, 1,404 people have died so far, while approximately 6,150 remain missing. More than 13,700 people have been safely rescued during this disaster.
Meanwhile, the impact of the floods has also been observed in China. According to Chinese media, 43 people have died in the floods there, while over 500 are reported missing.
Flash floods triggered by an avalanche on August 26
Flash floods occurred near the Nepal-Tibet border on August 26 following an avalanche. This caused widespread damage across several towns and villages in northern and central Nepal. Flooding in the Bhote Koshi River—which flows south from the Himalayas—swept away numerous houses, vehicles, roads, and bridges. Several hydroelectric projects were also affected.
It has been 21 days since this natural disaster struck, yet relief and search operations continue in many areas.
43 dead in China floods
According to Chinese media, 43 people have lost their lives in the floods in China, while more than 500 people remain missing.
In Nepal, the highest number of bodies—364—were recovered from Chitwan district. This was followed by 232 bodies from Nawalparasi East and 222 from Nawalparasi West. Bodies were also recovered from the districts of Nuwakot, Rasuwa, Gorkha, Dhading, and Tanahun.
Only 104 bodies identified
Identifying the bodies recovered after the floods remains a major challenge for the administration. According to officials, only 104 of the bodies recovered so far have been identified and handed over to their families.
Officials state that many bodies washed in by the floodwaters are severely damaged or decomposed. In several instances, only body parts have been recovered, making identification based on faces, clothing, or personal belongings difficult.
DNA testing crucial for identification
Forensic experts say that in many cases, accurate identification of the deceased will only be possible through DNA testing; however, this is a time-consuming process.
Search teams have been deployed to various hydroelectric projects in the flood-affected districts of Rasuwa and Nuwakot. Many workers employed there remain unaccounted for. The search and relief operations involve the Nepal Army and the Armed Police Force, alongside foreign technical experts.
Five bodies recovered from Chilime Hydropower Project
Naveen Srivastava, India’s Ambassador to Nepal, stated on Wednesday that Indian and Nepali rescue teams managed to reach the powerhouse of the Chilime Hydropower Project after days of clearing silt and mud.
The rescue team recovered the bodies of five people from the powerhouse tunnel. Meanwhile, the operation to search for missing persons and recover bodies in the affected areas continues.
