Kathmandu: Nepal is facing a major humanitarian crisis after a devastating flash flood struck the mountainous region near the Nepal-Tibet border. The sudden surge of water, mud, rocks and debris swept through several areas, damaging homes, roads, bridges and other infrastructure.

According to the latest figures from Nepal's National Emergency Operation Centre, 165 bodies have been recovered from different flood-affected areas, while 826 people remain missing. The missing include security personnel, local residents and tourists. Authorities have also reported that 579 tourists remain out of contact, including 466 foreign nationals and 113 Nepali tourists. 

Mountainous Areas Worst Hit

The disaster has particularly affected Rasuwa and surrounding mountainous districts. The powerful floodwaters carried large amounts of mud, rocks and debris, damaging settlements located near rivers and valleys.

Several roads and bridges have been damaged, making access to affected areas difficult. Rescue teams are also facing challenging weather and difficult mountainous terrain.

 165 Bodies Recovered

Authorities have so far recovered 165 bodies. Some of the bodies were carried downstream and recovered in different districts. Identification of some victims is still underway.

Among those missing are 85 security personnel, including 44 members of the Nepali Army, 28 Nepal Police personnel and 13 members of the Armed Police Force. Several local residents from Rasuwa and Nuwakot are also missing. 

 Tourists and Pilgrims Among the Missing

The affected region is an important tourism and pilgrimage corridor. Officials say 579 tourists remain out of contact, including hundreds of foreign nationals.

The region is also associated with the Kailash Mansarovar pilgrimage route, raising concerns about the safety of foreign tourists and pilgrims caught in the disaster. 

 Indian Nationals Also Affected

Several Indian nationals are reportedly among those missing or affected by the disaster. Indian authorities are coordinating with Nepal to gather information and assist citizens who may have been caught in the floods. What Caused the Flood?

Preliminary scientific analysis indicates that the disaster may have been triggered by the collapse of part of a Himalayan glacier, sending a huge amount of water and debris into the river system.

The US Geological Survey's analysis indicated that the event was linked to a glacial collapse rather than a conventional earthquake. 

 Rescue Operations Continue

Rescue teams have so far saved 104 people in the affected areas. Nepal has deployed security forces and emergency personnel to search for survivors and locate missing people. Helicopters are being used in difficult areas to transport rescue personnel and essential supplies. ([Nepal Ne

The combined number of missing people in Nepal and the Tibet region has been reported at close to 1,500. The exact figures may change as search operations continue and authorities receive more information.