Nepal Flood Death Toll Climbs to 939, Over 4,400 Missing After Glacier Collapse

Five days after a massive flood devastated parts of Nepal and Tibet, triggered by a collapsing glacier in the Himalayas, rescue teams are primarily finding bodies as the number of missing continues to rise. Nepalese authorities reported a dramatic increase in missing persons within their territory, from 2,502 to 3,925, while the death toll climbed from 781 to 939. On the Tibetan side, Chinese authorities reported 16 deaths and 546 missing, bringing the total missing to 4,471. Hundreds of foreign nationals, including over 100 Indians and numerous tourists from the US, UK, Australia, and other countries, are among the missing, many of whom were on pilgrimages to sacred sites.

Nepalese officials stated that 590 foreign nationals from 39 countries are missing in their territory, with 323 foreigners rescued so far. The challenging mountainous terrain and extensive destruction are severely hampering rescue efforts. Hundreds of bodies have been buried in shallow graves without identification due to the humid weather causing decomposition, though authorities are collecting DNA samples and identifying marks for potential future identification. The total number of affected individuals exceeds 90,000, with estimated rehabilitation costs between $4-5 billion.

Rescue operations in Nepal are currently focused on approximately 933 hydroelectric power plant workers believed to be trapped in flooded tunnels. Efforts are concentrated on the Trishuli A3 and A4 power stations, where rescue teams have drilled openings, supplied oxygen, and attempted to reach those inside, so far recovering three bodies. The Nepalese army is using controlled explosions and bulldozers to clear debris and water from the tunnels.

In Tibet, efforts include clearing roads to the Gyirong border crossing, which was the site of a viral video showing the immense water surge overwhelming the area. Chinese authorities have denied withholding information and stated they are providing regular hydrological and meteorological data to Nepal. Beijing also refuted claims of ignoring early warning signs during infrastructure construction and announced the arrest of 12 individuals for spreading false information online regarding the disaster.

Amidst the ongoing tragedy, a compelling story emerged of a school principal, Rajendra Devadi, who evacuated 900 students from his school just moments before the flood hit, saving all their lives. He recounted receiving multiple warnings and making the swift decision to move students to higher ground, stating that a delay of just 10 minutes would have been catastrophic. A 16-year-old student described the narrow escape, scrambling up a hill via a rear escape route as the local market was swept away.