Kathmandu— Following devastating floods triggered by the Bhotekoshi River on August 26th, Nepali authorities have rescued 2,715 individuals across Rasuwa, Nuwakot, Dhading and other affected areas while continuing to search for 1,321 people still reported missing. The disaster has resulted in the confirmed recovery of 768 bodies as of this afternoon, with ongoing rescue efforts hampered by widespread damage and difficult terrain. Security personnel from Nepal Army, Police, and Armed Police Force are among those unaccounted for, alongside a significant number of Nepali citizens and foreign nationals.

Rescue Operations Underway

As of today, 2,715 people have been rescued from the flood-affected districts. Of these, 160 individuals with injuries were transported to Kathmandu for medical treatment, with some already discharged after receiving care in local hospitals. Rescue teams comprised of personnel from the Nepal Army, Nepal Police, Armed Police Force, and other relevant agencies are continuing their search operations across the impacted regions.

Significant Loss of Life Confirmed

Nepal Police have confirmed the recovery of 768 bodies as of 2:00 pm today. The highest number of fatalities were found in Chitwan (264), followed by Nawalparasi East (194) and Nawalparasi West (100). Other districts reporting recovered bodies include Rasuwa (13), Dhading (50), Tanahun (37), Gorkha (58), and Nuwakot (52).

Missing Persons Remain a Major Concern

Authorities report that 1,321 people remain missing from Nuwakot and Rasuwa districts. According to Shambhu Prasad Regmi, Chief District Officer of Nuwakot and Coordinator of the District Disaster Management Committee, a total of 2,456 individuals have been rescued from Nuwakot and Rasuwa combined. Of those rescued, 2,225 are Nepali citizens and 231 are foreign nationals. The number of missing includes 1,109 Nepalis and 157 foreigners, with an additional 55 unidentified individuals.

Focus on Hydropower Project Sites

Search and rescue operations are particularly focused around the Upper Trishuli III 'A' hydropower project, where 84 personnel – including security forces and Nepal Electricity Authority employees – are actively involved. Disaster Management Committees also report ongoing search efforts at the nearby Trishuli III 'B' site. A joint team of 600 security personnel, utilizing helicopters and trained dogs, has been mobilized to support these operations.

Rescue and recovery efforts continue as authorities work to locate those still missing and provide assistance to affected communities.

(With inputs from RN)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.