At least 66 people have lost their lives and 69 are reported missing due to severe flooding and landslides in Nepal, as continuous rainfall has battered the region since Friday night. Officials confirmed the fatalities on Saturday, with 34 of the deceased located in the capital city, Kathmandu.
In addition to the fatalities, around 60 individuals have sustained injuries, and approximately 3,010 people have been rescued from affected areas across the country. Rishiram Tiwari, a spokesperson for the home ministry, stated that all branches of the security forces, including the army, have been mobilized to assist in rescue operations.
The relentless rain has triggered numerous landslides, blocking several roads, including three major highways, such as the crucial Prithvi Highway that connects Kathmandu to other parts of Nepal. Heavy machinery is currently being deployed to clear these routes.
In response to the severe weather, the government has issued flood warnings nationwide and has prohibited buses from operating at night on highways, while advising against car travel. Security forces have been placed on high alert.
Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak emphasized that the government's immediate focus is on rescuing those in danger and providing assistance to those affected by the flooding. Reports indicate that parts of Kathmandu have been inundated, with swollen rivers flooding many homes and forcing residents to seek refuge on higher floors. An army helicopter was deployed to rescue four individuals trapped in their homes.
The heavy rainfall has also led to widespread power and internet outages in much of Kathmandu. The monsoon season, which typically brings intense rainfall, began in June and is expected to last until mid-September.