Incessant rain disrupts life in Nepal, several rescue operations underway
by Komal KashyapIn a tragic tale of incidents, Nepal faces several challenges after heavy rainfall disrupts day to day life.
The rainfall began on Friday, September 27.
One of the visuals showed a bridge struggling against the fast-flowing water current. In another visual, a bridge is seen being washed away. Locals are majorly affected by the disaster. Houses, roads, and other structures are inundated, halting day-to-day activities.
Reports indicate that the death toll from rain-related floods and landslides in Nepal has risen to 192, with 30 people still unaccounted for, according to officials on Sunday. Since Friday, extensive areas in eastern and central Nepal have been impacted, with flash floods reported in various locations. Police have confirmed 192 deaths and 94 injuries linked to these events, as shared by Rishiram Pokharel, spokesperson for the Ministry of Home Affairs. Search and rescue operations are ongoing, involving all security agencies, and the Nepal Army has airlifted 162 individuals from different regions of the country.
The flooding has caused significant infrastructure damage, with several bridges being washed away. Videos circulating online depict iron bridges struggling against the powerful currents. Kathmandu remains cut off, as landslides have blocked all three main highways leading out of the city. In light of the crisis, police and military personnel are utilizing heavy machinery to clear the blocked roads. Additionally, the government has decided to close schools and colleges across the country for three days as a precaution.
Approximately 4,000 people impacted by the floods have been rescued by the Nepal Army, Nepal Police, and Armed Police Force, with relief supplies, including food, being distributed to those in need. In the Balkhu area on the outskirts of Kathmandu, social workers assisted in providing meals to 400 individuals.
Since Saturday, national highways have been obstructed by landslides, stranding hundreds of travelers. Efforts to clear these routes are ongoing, and transport has resumed on the Tribhuvan Highway, which connects Kathmandu to other districts, according to Pokharel.