Nepal flood death toll rises to 289 as search continues

Search and rescue teams in Nepal continue to comb through devastated areas following catastrophic floods that swept through the Bhotekoshi and Trishuli river systems. As of Thursday afternoon, authorities confirmed that 289 bodies have been recovered.

The grim tally includes victims found in various districts along the affected river systems. Rasuwa reported three bodies, Nuwakot 12, Dhading 29, Gorkha 29, Tanahun 16, Chitwan 121, East Nawalparasi 65, and West Nawalparasi 14.

Despite the significant number of bodies recovered, a large number of people are still reported missing or have been out of contact since the disaster struck on Wednesday. The Nepal Army, Nepal Police, and Armed Police Force are jointly conducting the search operations.

Rescue efforts are hampered by the extensive destruction caused by the floods. Damaged roads, bridges, and other critical infrastructure have made access to some affected areas extremely difficult for the search teams. The full extent of the destruction and the number of missing persons are still being assessed.