Nepal observes final day of mourning as search teams continue rescue efforts

Nepal’s grief-stricken population observed the final day of traditional Hindu mourning as search teams continued looking for survivors after a catastrophic mudslide along the country’s border with China.

Government offices across the Hindu-majority nation, along with Nepal’s diplomatic missions abroad, flew the national flag at half-mast. The Home Ministry said the observance marked the 13th day after the deaths, traditionally considered the final day of mourning. Families commemorate it with rituals and food offerings.

At least 1,398 people have been killed, while more than 5,500 remain missing. Yet recent rescues have kept hopes alive. Search teams saved four people in the past few days, described in the report as remarkable rescues.

The operation has now focused on hydropower stations in the affected region. Army spokesperson Raja Ram Basnet said authorities believe survivors could still be found there.