Nepal flood death toll rises to 903

Nepal flood death toll rises to 903

KATHMANDU: The death toll from devastating floods and landslides in Nepal’s border regions has climbed to 903, as rescue teams continue searching for hundreds of missing people and workers trapped at hydropower projects.

Nepali authorities said more than 2,500 people remain missing after powerful floods and landslides swept through several areas, causing widespread destruction and cutting off communities. Rescue teams have intensified their search for survivors as the scale of the disaster continues to emerge.

Authorities also reported that 933 workers remain stranded at six locations linked to hydropower projects. Several workers are trapped inside tunnels, and emergency teams are working to reach them and bring them to safety.

The disaster has also raised serious concerns about students. Nepal’s Ministry of Education said more than 200 students from educational institutions are missing following the floods and landslides. Officials fear the number could increase as rescuers gain access to areas that remain difficult to reach.

Rescue teams have recovered several bodies from low-lying areas nearly 100 kilometres away from the worst-hit regions. Officials said floodwaters carried the bodies downstream, while they expect rescuers to find more victims as search operations continue.

The floods have caused extensive damage to Nepal’s infrastructure. Schools, hospitals, hydropower plants, roads, bridges and other public facilities have suffered major destruction, disrupting essential services and transportation in affected areas.

Nepal’s Foreign Minister said the country does not currently require international assistance for general search-and-rescue operations. However, he said Nepal needs specialised foreign support to rescue people trapped inside hydropower tunnels, provide technical expertise, arrange transportation and safely preserve and identify recovered bodies.

Authorities continue to assess the damage while rescue and recovery operations remain underway. The difficult terrain, damaged roads and ongoing flood conditions are complicating efforts to reach isolated communities and locate those still missing.