RismadarVoice Reporters
September 3, 2026
Rescue teams in Nepal are continuing operations to reach communities affected by devastating floods and landslides that have killed more than 1,270 people in Nepal and neighbouring China.
Authorities said on Thursday that 1,252 bodies had been recovered in Nepal, while more than 4,200 people remained missing. In Tibet, Chinese authorities reported 21 deaths and 541 missing persons following the disaster.
The floods were triggered by a massive flow of rocks, mud and water that swept through parts of the Himalayan region last week. Scientists believe the disaster may have been linked to a glacier collapse near the Langtang Lirung mountain peak, causing widespread destruction to villages, roads and bridges.
Emergency workers are focusing efforts on reaching people trapped inside hydropower facilities, including workers believed to be stranded in tunnels near Nepal’s border with China.
Nepal Army engineers have been working to clear large amounts of mud blocking access to affected power facilities, with officials saying they remain hopeful that some survivors may still be found.
Rescue teams are also using helicopters and zip lines to reach isolated villages cut off by damaged infrastructure.
The United Nations Development Programme estimated that the floods and mudslides have left about 2.2 million tonnes of debris across affected areas.
In Kathmandu, forensic teams are working to identify recovered bodies, many of which have been difficult to recognise due to decomposition. Authorities are using available identification methods, including personal belongings, tattoos and jewellery, to help reunite victims with their families.
Nepal’s Prime Minister Balendra Shah said the government would continue search and rescue operations while beginning rehabilitation and rebuilding efforts.
Officials said about 20,000 houses may need to be rebuilt, including 7,500 that were destroyed. Authorities are considering relocating some communities to safer areas to reduce future risks.
Nepal’s government has also called for international support, with officials urging major greenhouse gas-emitting countries to assist vulnerable nations affected by climate-related disasters.
The floods have left thousands displaced, with many survivors currently sheltering in temporary camps and public facilities while authorities assess the scale of the damage.
