The death toll from the floods that struck northern Nepal has exceeded 1,000. According to the Nepalese Foreign Ministry as of September 1, 987 deaths have been officially confirmed, with another 16 deaths recorded by Chinese authorities in border areas of Tibet.
Jnews.az reports that the number of missing persons has reached 4,500: 3,925 on the Nepalese side and 546 in southwestern Tibet. Among them are approximately 850 foreign workers, pilgrims, and tourists from more than 30 countries. The list of missing persons includes a 41-year-old Israeli woman who also holds a Belarusian passport.
Earthquake caused the tragedy
The disaster was triggered by a 4.7-magnitude earthquake that occurred on the morning of August 26. The resulting landslide blocked the channel of the Bhote Koshi River, after which the formed dam burst.
The water surge, moving at a speed of 180 km/h, destroyed roads, bridges, and hydroelectric facilities, with the Rasuwa and Nuwakot districts suffering the most severe damage.
Search and rescue operations continue
Rescue operations are continuing around the clock. Special attention is being paid to searching for people trapped in the tunnels of the hydroelectric power plant cascade.
Rescuers are using additional equipment and explosives to access closed sections, though there is currently no information on survivors. There are fears that those trapped may have perished due to a lack of oxygen.
Thousands of people need help
The International Red Cross estimates the number of affected people, including the injured and those left homeless, at more than 90,000.
Nepal has received $42 million in international aid. Specialists from India and China are involved in the cleanup efforts, helping to build temporary crossings and clear debris.
Statement from the Israeli Foreign Ministry
The Israeli Foreign Ministry is in contact with the family of the missing Israeli citizen and is working with local authorities.
The ministry has urged citizens in the region to follow the instructions of local authorities, avoid disaster zones, and maintain contact with the Israeli Embassy in Kathmandu.
Source: vesty.co.il
