Nepal-China border flood death toll rises to 162

KATMANDU, Aug 27: The death toll from devastating flash floods that swept through villages and trekking routes along the Nepal-China border has risen to 162, with hundreds still missing, local media reported Thursday.

The floods were likely triggered by a large chunk of ice breaking off a Himalayan glacier about 20 kilometers northeast of the Rasuwa-Rasuwagadhi border crossing, sending ice and rocks into the Bhotekoshi River, according to satellite imagery cited by The Himalayan Times.

The Nepali government has deployed the army and private helicopter operators for search and rescue operations and is relocating displaced residents. So far, 114 people have been airlifted to safety, while helicopters and drones continue searching affected areas.

Chitwan district recorded the highest number of deaths at 64, followed by Dhading with 27 and Nawalparasi East with 22. Among those reported missing are more than 100 Indian nationals, 54 Americans, 34 Australians and 33 Britons, while 28 Nepal Police personnel remain unaccounted for.

The floods have reportedly destroyed 19 bridges and damaged about 40 kilometers of a major highway, disrupting transport and complicating rescue efforts.

Nepal's Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal described the destruction as "extreme" in several districts and urged residents along the Bhotekoshi and Trishuli riverbanks to remain on high alert. Rasuwa, Nuwakot and Dhading have been declared disaster crisis areas for three months.

Nepal's disaster management authority has urged helicopter and drone operators to coordinate closely with local administrations and security agencies. Stranded residents have also been advised to light fires and create smoke signals to help rescuers locate them.

India, China and the World Bank are coordinating financial assistance for rescue, relief and reconstruction efforts in the flood-hit areas, Nepal's Ministry of Finance said.