The devastating flash floods and landslides triggered by an ice-rock avalanche near the Tibet border have caused widespread destruction, with the reported death toll rising to nearly 903. Thousands of people are still reported missing or uncontactable as rescue and relief operations continue across the affected region.
The scale of the disaster has prompted a massive emergency response, with nearly 20,000 security personnel and 14 military helicopters deployed for search, rescue and evacuation operations.
Thousands Still Missing
According to an update issued by the Government of Andhra Pradesh, the death toll had reached 903 as of Monday morning. Authorities estimate that around 2,500 to 3,000 people remain missing or uncontactable, while more than 8,700 people have been evacuated by security forces.
The disaster has severely affected areas along the Tibet-Nepal border, where heavy rainfall, landslides and powerful floodwaters have damaged roads, bridges and other critical infrastructure.
Officials continue to monitor the situation as difficult terrain, blocked valleys and unstable conditions are hampering rescue efforts.
Indian Nationals Among Those Untraceable
Several Indian nationals remain untraceable following the floods and landslides in Nepal. Authorities have reported that between 149 and 180 Indians have been evacuated, while approximately 275 to 320 remain missing or uncontactable.
Among those being tracked are pilgrims and other citizens from Andhra Pradesh. Fourteen people of Andhra Pradesh origin are reportedly among those affected, including seven residents of the state and seven NRIs.
Indian and Nepalese authorities are maintaining communication to locate missing citizens and coordinate their evacuation.
Telugu Pilgrims Reach Kathmandu Safely
Amid the crisis, there was some relief as a group of Telugu pilgrims successfully reached Kathmandu after being evacuated from Tibet.
A total of 144 pilgrims reportedly crossed into Nepal through the Kodari checkpoint after being evacuated from Saga County in Tibet. The group included 20 Telugu pilgrims, among them a person identified as Sastry and three members of his family.
The Telugu pilgrims reached Kathmandu late Sunday night and are scheduled to travel to Mumbai before proceeding to their respective hometowns.
Massive Rescue Operation Underway
The rescue effort has involved thousands of security personnel, military aircraft and specialised emergency teams.
Around 20,000 security personnel and 14 military helicopters have been deployed in the affected areas. Six specialised surgical teams are also assisting with emergency medical care for survivors.
India has additionally deployed a specialised tunnel-rescue team and technical experts to assist operations at the Trishuli-3A hydropower tunnel, where workers are reportedly trapped.
Roads And Bridges Suffer Extensive Damage
The disaster has also caused major damage to transportation infrastructure.
According to the Andhra Pradesh government’s assessment, more than 25 miles of roads and around 40 suspension bridges have reportedly been destroyed. The destruction has made access to several affected locations considerably more difficult and complicated evacuation efforts.
Heavy rainfall and continued landslides remain a major concern, while blocked valleys are making movement for rescue teams challenging.
Temporary Lake Raises Fresh Concern
Authorities are also closely monitoring a potentially dangerous temporary lake formed in Tibet following the extreme flooding.
The accumulation of water could create additional risks for downstream areas if the temporary reservoir breaches or releases a large volume of water suddenly.
With weather conditions remaining unstable, authorities are maintaining coordination with Nepalese officials to monitor secondary threats and ensure the safety of stranded people.
Focus On Evacuation And Missing Persons
The immediate priority remains locating missing people, evacuating stranded citizens and providing medical assistance to those rescued.
Indian authorities are continuing to coordinate with their Nepalese counterparts regarding the identification, evacuation and welfare of Indian nationals, with particular attention being given to pilgrims from Andhra Pradesh.
The disaster has left large areas severely damaged, and rescue teams are racing against difficult weather and terrain conditions to reach people who remain stranded or uncontactable.
