Kathmandu— Devastating flash floods that struck Nepal’s Bhotekoshi and Trishuli river systems on August 26th have claimed the lives of at least 734 people across multiple districts, with rescue efforts ongoing. As of 8:00 am local time today, authorities reported recovering bodies from Rasuwa, Dhading, Tanahu, Nuwakot, Gorkha, Chitwan, Nawalparasi East and Nawalparasi West. Security personnel have rescued over 2,699 individuals, while a significant number of security force members remain unaccounted for.

Extent of the Disaster

The hardest-hit districts include Chitwan with 259 deaths, followed by Nawalparasi East (185) and Nawalparasi West (82). Rasuwa reported 13 fatalities, Dhading recorded 50, Tanahu saw 36 deaths, Nuwakot had 52, and Gorkha accounted for 58. The floods caused widespread damage to infrastructure and displacement of communities across the affected regions.

Rescue operations have been concentrated in Rasuwa (676 rescues), Nuwakot (2,020 rescues) and Dhading (3 rescues). Those injured are receiving medical attention at hospitals in Kathmandu, with 160 individuals having returned home after recovering from their injuries.

Missing Security Personnel

A concerning aspect of the disaster is the number of security personnel who remain unaccounted for. A total of 84 employees representing the Nepali Army, Nepal Police, and Armed Police Force are currently missing. This includes 44 members of the Nepali Army, 27 from the Nepal Police, and 13 from the Armed Police Force. Their disappearance adds to the complexity of the ongoing relief efforts.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation and provide assistance to those affected by the floods, with recovery efforts expected to be prolonged given the scale of the devastation.

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.