Nepal is facing one of its most devastating flood disasters in recent years after a massive mudslide and flood struck the Rasuwa and Dhading areas along the Nepal-China border. At least 162 people have been killed, according to the latest reports, while hundreds remain missing.
Rescue teams are using helicopters to search for survivors in areas where roads and communications have been severely damaged. The disaster has also affected people travelling through the region, including foreign tourists visiting popular trekking and pilgrimage destinations.
The scale of the disaster has created an international rescue effort. Hundreds of foreign nationals have reportedly been unaccounted for, including Americans, Australians, Britons and Canadians. Several countries have begun coordinating with Nepali authorities over their citizens.
The flooding has also damaged hydropower plants, transmission lines and other critical infrastructure. Nepal’s energy sector is now assessing the financial and operational impact of the destruction.
Authorities are warning residents in vulnerable areas to remain alert as rescue and recovery operations continue. The disaster remains a developing story, with casualty and missing-person figures expected to change as teams reach isolated locations.