What Happened at the Nepal-China Border: 18 Missing?
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Synopsis
In a devastating turn of events, flash floods in Nepal's Rasuwa district have left 18 individuals missing, including police personnel and foreign nationals. The government is mobilizing resources for rescue efforts as property damages escalate. Stay with us for updates on this unfolding disaster.
Key Takeaways
- 18 individuals missing due to flash floods in Rasuwa.
- Nepal-China Friendship Bridge destroyed.
- Government mobilizing resources at a war footing.
- Emergency meetings called by the Ministry of Home Affairs.
- Rescue operations underway for those affected.
Kathmandu, July 8 (NationPress) A total of 18 individuals are currently unaccounted for after unexpected flash floods ravaged Nepal's Rasuwa district early Tuesday morning, as reported by local news outlets.
The missing persons comprise three police officers, nine local civilians, and six individuals from China, as stated by the Assistant Chief District Officer of Rasuwa.
Moreover, the severe flooding has resulted in the destruction of the Nepal-China Friendship Bridge and has also damaged numerous newly imported electric vehicles (EVs) that were stationed at the dry port.
“The flood has obliterated the Friendship Bridge and several EVs at the dry port. There are concerns that some individuals may have been inside the vehicles when the disaster occurred, but this is yet to be validated,” said Arjun Paudel, the chief district officer of Rasuwa, as quoted by The Kathmandu Post.
He further noted that many individuals trapped in the flood, including security personnel involved in rescue operations, have been successfully evacuated.
At the same time, Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli expressed on his social media platform on Tuesday that the government is operating on a “war footing” to assist those affected by the floods.
“The government has deployed resources at a war footing to aid those impacted by the floods in the Trishuli River (the Bhotekoshi River transitions into Trishuli downstream). Several lives have been lost, some individuals remain missing, and the property damage is substantial,” the Prime Minister stated.
Oli conveyed his condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and extended his sympathies to all affected by this catastrophe.
“In this moment of tragedy, I am receiving regular updates from the Security Agency about the rescue efforts in the impacted regions while postponing scheduled programs, except for essential matters. I have instructed authorities to ensure that there is no deficiency in the government’s response. Emergency aid is being coordinated meticulously in vulnerable areas,” he added.
Furthermore, in light of the flooding that has caused widespread destruction in the Rasuwa district, Nepal’s Ministry of Home Affairs has convened an emergency meeting.
A joint discussion among the Central Security Committee and the Executive Committee of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA) is also set for Tuesday, according to the Home Minister's Secretariat.
Point of View
It is our duty to report on the unfolding situation in Rasuwa with transparency and integrity. The government's response must be swift and effective, ensuring that every missing individual is accounted for, while also addressing the extensive damages caused by this natural disaster. Our thoughts remain with those impacted, and we urge continued support for recovery efforts.
NationPress
03/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
How many people are missing after the floods?
Currently, 18 individuals are reported missing, including police personnel and Chinese nationals.
What major infrastructure was affected?
The Nepal-China Friendship Bridge has been destroyed, along with several newly imported electric vehicles.
What is the government doing in response?
The government is operating on a 'war footing' to mobilize resources for rescue operations.
What did the Prime Minister say about the incident?
Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli expressed condolences and emphasized the government's commitment to rescue efforts and emergency response.
What meetings have been called in response to the disaster?
An emergency meeting has been convened by Nepal's Ministry of Home Affairs, along with a joint meeting of the Central Security Committee.
