New Delhi (India) August 26: More than 400 people are reported missing, with at least 98 dead, since massive flash floods devastated Nepal's northern Rasuwa district, close to the Tibetan border, on Wednesday, destroying homes, cars, bridges and construction project sites.
Cause Of Floods Remain Unclear
The Chinese side of the Nepal-Tibet border recorded security footage showing individuals on the verge of fleeing just before enormous rocks, mud, and water completely devastated the region, which ended in the destruction of buildings and vehicles. One particular social media video showed what appears to be floods destroying a bridge. Another showed a house demolishing itself like a deck of cards as people screamed and fled.
The reason for the sudden flood in Bhote Kosi River not yet being found, Department of Hydrology and Meteorology Nepal said that there was no rainfall in the Rasuwa area responsible for the flooding.
Modi Assures Nepal Of Support
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolence in a call he made to Nepal Prime Minister Balendra Shah regarding the human fatalities in the calamity.
“Spoke to Prime Minister Balendra Shah and conveyed condolences on the loss of lives due to the floods in Nepal. The people of India stand in solidarity with their sisters and brothers in Nepal at this difficult time,” Modi said on social media platform X.
“India is ready to provide all possible humanitarian assistance to Nepal. Our teams are coordinating closely on rescue and relief efforts,” he added.
India Seeks Rescue Of Nationals
The Indian Embassy in Kathmandu says it is trying its best to cooperate with the Nepal authorities in order to rescue and provide relief to the affected Indian nationals; the Ministry of External affairs announced Wednesday.
Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal of Ministry of External Affairs said that it is seeking the quickest rescue and relief for all Indian people in need.
“Embassy of India in Nepal is closely coordinating with Government of Nepal for the early rescue and relief of Indian nationals affected by today's flash floods in Nepal,” Jaiswal said.
UP Districts Put On Alert
Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath has communicated his concern for Nepal’s flood situation and told local authorities to be prepared for the situation.
Yogi said, "The damage caused by the devastating floods in the Bhote Koshi River in Nepal's Rasuwa region is extremely worrying. Prayers to Lord Pashupatinath for the safety of all."
"In view of the rise in water levels of the Gandak and Narayani rivers and the possibility of flooding in Uttar Pradesh's districts of Maharajganj and Kushinagar due to its impact, instructions have been issued to the local administration to remain fully vigilant and ensure necessary preparations," he added.