Nepal flood death toll rises to 538, with 937 still missing

Nepal has reported a grim toll of 538 dead following a devastating flood that swept through the Bhote Koshi river basin earlier this week. Rescue teams are now engaged in an intensive search for 937 individuals who remain unaccounted for in the affected regions.

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority confirmed the latest figures, highlighting Chitwan district as the hardest-hit area, with 221 confirmed fatalities. The immense scale of the disaster is further underscored by the destruction of infrastructure, including dozens of bridges and roads, which is severely impeding rescue operations.

Compounding the crisis, China has reported five deaths and 558 missing in its Gyirong county, which was also impacted by the floodwaters. The total reported victim count from both sides stands at 480 dead and over 1,400 missing, though coordination between the two countries' response efforts is unclear.

Authorities have managed to rescue or provide aid to over 3,200 people, primarily in the Nuwakot, Rasuwa, and Dhading districts. However, the United Nations has warned of extreme difficulties in reaching the most devastated areas due to the extensive damage to access routes, accumulated mud, and collapsed communication systems. Among the missing are 517 foreigners, 127 Nepali residents visiting from abroad, 85 security and customs personnel, and numerous local residents.