At least eight people have been killed and hundreds of tourists are missing, including 12 Britons, following a massive flash flood in Nepal. The deluge, triggered by an earthquake, swept away villages, buildings, and bridges in the Himalayan nation, with rescue operations underway.
Officials reported that 384 tourists and trekkers are unaccounted for, comprising 291 foreign nationals and 93 Nepali citizens. Among the missing are 105 Indian nationals, 17 from Malaysia, four from South Africa, and three from the United States, alongside the 12 individuals from the UK. The nationalities of 111 others are yet to be confirmed, and an additional 37 are believed to be non-resident Indians living in Nepal.
Across the border in Tibet, China reported "major casualties" and missing persons in Gyirong county due to a mudslide that impacted a land crossing between China and Nepal. The mudslide severed roads, communications, and power in the Shigatse region near the border.
Nepal deployed 14 helicopters and disaster response teams for rescue and relief efforts. However, officials stated that the high water levels prevented helicopters from landing in affected areas like Syapru Besi and Timure in the Rasuwa district. Army spokesperson Raja Ram Basnet indicated that landings would only be possible once the waters recede.
"There could be heavy casualties or loss of property," district administrator Narendra Pariyar told Reuters, urging residents along the Bhote Koshi river to seek higher ground. Witnesses described the event as sudden, with a loud sound like an erupting volcano preceding the chaos.
Initial reports from Nepal's foreign minister suggest an earthquake caused an avalanche, which in turn triggered the flooding. The Bhote Koshi river, originating in Tibet, flows into Nepal's Trishuli river and eventually into India. The energy ministry reported that 430 MW of electricity supplies, primarily from hydroelectric projects, were affected, representing over 12% of Nepal's total national hydropower capacity.
Prime Minister Balendra Shah confirmed that police and military personnel are assisting in rescue and relief operations, and instructions have been issued to move people from low-lying areas to safety. He advised those living along the river to remain cautious and alert.
This event bears resemblance to a deadly flash flood on the same river last year, which was attributed to the draining of a glacier lake. That incident resulted in nine deaths, 24 missing, and the destruction of a 'Friendship Bridge' connecting Nepal and China, disrupting trade and transport for months. The cause of last year's flood was identified as the draining of a supraglacial lake in Tibet. Chinese President Xi Jinping has called for "all-out" search efforts and enhanced monitoring systems to prevent secondary disasters.