Nepal PM Calls Flash Floods An “Unprecedented Disaster”, Assures Swift Rescue Efforts

NDTV - Nepal's Prime Minister Balendra Shah has called the flash-flood situation in the country an "unprecedented disaster" and asserted that the government is engaged in rescue and relief operations "as quickly and effectively as possible". 

In a statement released today, Shah said that the Nepali Army has so far rescued 116 people from Timure in Rasuwa district. 

Of these, 95 are Nepali citizens, and 21 are Indian nationals. Additionally, seven Nepali citizens trapped inside a tunnel were also rescued.

He said "Rescue flights have been operating since 6:30 AM this morning. More than 15 flights have been conducted so far, and additional helicopters have been kept on standby for rescue operations...At a time when the country is facing this unprecedented disaster, the government is engaged in rescue and relief operations as quickly and effectively as possible. With the support and cooperation of the entire country, Nepalis around the world, and the international community, we are collectively facing this difficult situation."

According to Shah, efforts are underway to rapidly deliver essential relief supplies, including generators, portable mobile towers, medical supplies, tents, and machines for cutting iron and stone, among other items. 

Prime Minister Shah appealed to everyone to remain patient and calm, wait for rescue and relief operations, and cooperate in confronting this disaster. 

He further affirmed that the entire state machinery is mobilised to carry out rescue operations as soon as possible. 

At least 300 people have been killed in Nepal and Tibet in the flash floods, with hundreds, including a large number of foreign tourists, remaining missing.

Nepal Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal said that over 500 foreign nationals are out of contact at present.

Devastating footage of the aftermath of the floods showed homes, bridges, and roads swept away, leaving nothing but mud-filled tracks.