Nepal Flood Death Toll Rises to 157, Hundreds Missing

A catastrophic flood in Nepal's Rasuwa district has claimed at least 157 lives, with hundreds more missing, including a significant number of foreign tourists. The disaster, triggered by a massive mudslide into the Bhote Koshi River, has devastated areas near the Tibetan border.

Initially reported as a flood, the event is now understood to be a devastating mud and rock avalanche. The deluge swept away villages, damaged hydroelectric power stations, and destroyed 19 bridges, according to the AP agency. Rescue operations are underway in the difficult mountain terrain, but efforts are hampered by the remoteness of the affected areas, lack of electricity, and basic equipment.

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It was a huge wave of mud that was rushing straight at us. When it entered the house, I tried to grab my wife and escape to the roof, but my wife was swept away.

Among the missing are 391 foreign nationals and 93 Nepalis. The Nepalese Chamber of Tourism reported 133 missing Indian pilgrims, along with citizens from the United States, Australia, Britain, and Canada. The disaster struck a region that is a popular pilgrimage route to Mount Kailash in Tibet and a trekking destination.

On the Chinese side of the border, a similar avalanche hit the Gyirong district, destroying the border crossing and roads. Three deaths have been confirmed there, with 265 people missing. The Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that it has no information about Polish citizens affected by the flood, but consulates are monitoring the situation.

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Currently, the Polish consular service has no information about Polish citizens who may have suffered as a result of the flood in Nepal.