The border area between Nepal and Tibet has been hit by powerful floods and landslides, causing extensive damage to villages, roads and infrastructure. Authorities have mobilized search-and-rescue teams, amid fears that the death toll could be high.
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The disaster struck Rasuwa district, north of the capital Kathmandu, in the early hours of Wednesday. Preliminary data suggest that the flooding may have been caused by massive snowmelt in the Bhote Koshi River, which flows from Tibet toward Nepal. So far, 12 people have been rescued, while searches continue on both sides of the border.
The situation is particularly serious on the Nepalese side. According to authorities, 13 Armed Police Force officers from two posts in Rasuwa district are missing. Communication has also been lost with dozens of other personnel.
The impact on infrastructure has been extensive. Electricity supplies and communications have been disrupted, while roads have been damaged. The main artery linking the area to Kathmandu has also become impassable.
To respond to the emergency, Nepalese Prime Minister Balendra Shah called an urgent meeting. He announced that medical teams, scouts and the Red Cross had joined the operation.
Authorities have urged residents living near rivers to remain vigilant and take the necessary measures to protect themselves.
Last year, Rasuwa was also hit by a flood with fatal consequences, in which 18 people died. Officials say Wednesday’s disaster could prove more severe than the one a year ago.
