Kathmandu, Aug 27 (V7N)- Rescue operations are continuing in northern Nepal as authorities race against time following devastating flash floods and landslides. So far, 160 bodies have been recovered from the disaster-hit areas.
A state of emergency has been declared as the search for missing people continues. At least 844 people, including more than 450 foreign nationals, are still reported missing.
Among the missing are 133 Indian nationals and citizens of at least 28 other countries, including the United States, Australia, the Netherlands and Malaysia.
According to local reports, an earthquake struck the mountainous region of Bagmati Province near the Tibet border at around 8:30 am local time on Wednesday (August 26). The tremor reportedly triggered multiple avalanches and landslides in the mountainous areas.
A massive landslide struck the Rasua region, sweeping away a large portion of a village within a short time. Several areas were inundated by floodwater.
The affected region was also hosting large numbers of pilgrims and tourists travelling toward Mount Kailash and Manasarovar. Authorities fear that many people may still be trapped or missing.
Members of the Nepal Army and police, along with local volunteers, are continuing rescue and relief operations in difficult terrain. Efforts are being hampered by damaged roads and continuing risks from landslides and flooding.
The disaster has also caused damage across the border in Tibet, where the effects of the flash floods have been reported in several areas.
END/SMA/AJ
