Kathmandu: Continuous heavy rainfall has unleashed devastation across Nepal, causing severe floods and landslides. Since Thursday, relentless rains have led to the deaths of at least 99 people and injured more than 60 others. Disaster officials have issued urgent flash flood warnings as the situation worsens.
Tragic Toll in Kathmandu Valley
Deputy spokesperson of Nepal Police, Biswa Adhikari, reported that 99 fatalities have been confirmed, with at least 34 of these occurring in the Kathmandu Valley alone. Additionally, over 60 individuals have sustained injuries due to the floods. The crisis has left 79 people missing nationwide, including 16 from the Kathmandu Valley. Rescue operations have successfully saved more than three thousand people so far.
Highways and Infrastructure Severely Impacted
The heavy rains have caused significant disruptions, blocking main highways at 63 locations across the country. Acting Prime Minister and Urban Development Minister, Prakash Man Singh, convened an emergency meeting with key ministers and security officials to expedite search and rescue efforts. In response to the crisis, the government has ordered the closure of all schools for three days and postponed all examinations.
Massive Deployment of Security Personnel
Floods have also disrupted the main power line, resulting in a day-long power outage in Kathmandu, which was only restored in the evening. Landslides have blocked all entry routes to the capital, further complicating rescue operations. According to police reports, 226 houses have been submerged in Kathmandu. To address the emergency, approximately three thousand security personnel have been deployed by the Nepal Police in the affected areas.
The situation remains critical as authorities continue to battle the elements to rescue and provide aid to those affected by this natural disaster.
