NEPAL: Nearly 1,500 people, including at least 800 foreigners, are missing after a devastating flood struck the Himalayan region of Nepal and China’s Tibet, authorities said on Thursday.
The disaster occurred after a massive collapse of mud, rock, ice and debris sent floodwaters through mountainous areas along the Nepal-China border. The powerful surge destroyed homes, roads, bridges and other infrastructure, leaving widespread destruction across affected communities.
In Nepal, officials said 826 people were missing, including nearly 600 foreign nationals from more than two dozen countries. The missing include 177 people from India, 63 from the United States, 34 from Australia, 33 from Britain and 25 from Canada.
In Tibet’s Gyirong county, 558 people were reported missing, including 260 foreign nationals, according to China’s state broadcaster CCTV.
Rescue teams have been working around the clock as helicopters search for survivors and deliver emergency supplies to isolated communities. More than 5,000 Nepalese army and police personnel have reportedly been mobilised for rescue and recovery operations.
Officials initially considered whether an earthquake may have triggered the disaster. However, the U.S. Geological Survey said seismic energy detected in the area was generated by the collapse of glacial rock and ice, followed by a debris flow.
Authorities in Tibet have also warned of risks from a lake that remains blocked upstream from the affected border area. A sudden release of water could further complicate rescue operations.
Many people caught in the disaster were travelling toward Kailash Mansarovar, a sacred pilgrimage destination in Tibet revered by Hindus and Buddhists.
International concern has grown as governments respond to reports of missing citizens. The United States announced $500,000 in assistance and said it would send a disaster response adviser. Canada and Australia also expressed concern, while the United Nations said teams and supplies were being sent to support affected communities.
Witnesses described scenes of severe destruction, with thick layers of mud covering homes, vehicles and roads. Officials warned that the death toll could rise as rescue workers reach remote areas.
