Kathmandu— Following catastrophic flash floods on August 26th, Nepal’s Prime Minister Balendra Shah provided an update Friday evening detailing ongoing search, rescue, relief distribution, and rehabilitation efforts across affected regions. The response has included continuous helicopter operations, the reconnection of critical road networks like those in Rasuwa district, and coordination with international partners to secure aid and resources. Over 4,451 survivors have been rescued, including 191 from a tunnel, while damage assessments are being conducted by sectoral groups and technical teams to evaluate infrastructure impacts.

Rescue Operations and Air Support

A combined fleet of 16 helicopters – from the Nepal Army and private sector – has been continuously operating in areas such as Dhunche, Trishuli, Timure, and Syafrubesi. To date, these aircraft have conducted 99 air flights focused on rescue and relief delivery. Special coordination is also underway to locate and assist foreign nationals impacted by the disaster; so far, 129 tourists or citizens have been rescued and identified, with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs operating an Emergency Control Room to liaise with embassies and families.

Infrastructure Restoration Underway

Rasuwa district, severely affected by the floods, has had its road connectivity restored via the Bogatitar-Kalikasthan-Dhunche route. One-way traffic has also resumed on the Kathmandu-Mugling road. The government is actively seeking to procure 10 bailey bridges, each 70 meters in length, from India and China to further expedite infrastructure repairs. Efforts are also focused on restoring essential services; 82 out of 120 NTC mobile sites and 63 out of 78 Ncell sites have been brought back online, while electricity has been restored to approximately 90 percent of Nuwakot district.

Financial Aid and Disaster Relief Fund

The Prime Minister announced that Rs 67.5 million (approximately $550,000 USD) has been distributed to 15 local levels impacted by the floods for immediate relief work. Additionally, over Rs 1.9 billion (approximately $15.5 million USD) has been collected in the Prime Minister’s Disaster Relief Fund within the last 36 hours. These funds will support ongoing rescue efforts and long-term rehabilitation initiatives.

Warnings and Assistance Coordination

Early warning systems have been activated for potential flooding in the Bhotekoshi River basin, with SMS alerts sent to over 200,000 people urging those in risky areas to evacuate. Prime Minister Shah refuted reports that the government had declined foreign assistance, stating that continuous coordination is ongoing with India, China, and international partners regarding necessary aid and materials. He emphasized that helicopter deployments prioritize air safety, geographical accessibility, and actual needs.

Damage assessments are continuing across affected regions, and efforts to restore full infrastructure connectivity and essential services remain a top priority for the government.

(With inputs from RN)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.