Massive flash floods struck a border region between Nepal and Tibet, resulting in over 160 fatalities and leaving numerous individuals, including 24 Canadians, unaccounted for. The catastrophe, which occurred on Wednesday, caused devastation as it surged through communities, halting travel activities in certain areas.
Nepalese authorities confirmed 162 casualties, while China’s state media reported three fatalities and over 558 missing persons in Tibet’s Gyirong county as of early Thursday. Among the missing individuals, 260 were foreign nationals, as per CCTV reports.
The flash floods, triggered by the Bhotekoshi River flooding around 9 a.m. local time on Wednesday, led to the destruction of villages, roads, and hydropower projects, as stated by Nepali officials. In response, warnings were issued to residents in various districts of Nepal to steer clear of the Bhotekoshi, Trishuli, and Narayani riverbanks.
Sasmit Pokharel, a spokesperson for the Nepali government, appealed to both India and China for assistance in the ongoing rescue operations. Sunil Sharma, the acting director of the Nepal Tourism Board’s public relations and publicity department, reported that 403 individuals, including 341 foreigners, were reported missing, with 24 being Canadian citizens. This information was later confirmed by Nepal’s ambassador to Canada, Bharat Raj Paudyal.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed his sorrow over the flash flood, urging all Canadians in the affected region to register with the ROCA system promptly. He assured that Canada stands prepared to offer support to those in need.
Global Affairs Canada acknowledged the impact on Canadian citizens and mentioned the challenges in establishing communication due to power outages despite having consular officials in the region.
Security footage from the Chinese side of the Nepal-Tibet border captured people fleeing before a deluge of rock, mud, and water obliterated buildings and vehicles. Sharma disclosed that among the missing, 133 were Indian nationals on a pilgrimage to Mount Kailash, while others included individuals from the US, Australia, and the UK. South Korean and Malaysian officials also reported their citizens as unaccounted for.
As rescue efforts continue, concerns arise over the safety of those missing, including tourists and locals. Efforts are being coordinated by various nations, with the United Nations mobilizing aid in Nepal, and China and India offering assistance in search and rescue operations.
The devastating flash floods have once again highlighted the vulnerability of the Himalayan region to climate-related disasters, emphasizing the urgent need for improved early warning systems and climate adaptation measures.