Nepal Floods

India, China and the US expanded relief support after Nepal’s floods, as Kathmandu sought to link disaster response with climate accountability.

The tragedy that struck Nepal on August 26 has claimed at least 1,451 lives, with more than 6,000 still missing.

So far, nearly 1,300 bodies have been temporarily buried after their DNA samples were collected, officials said.

Climate scientist Tapio Schneider said early warning systems should cover non-rainfall triggers to give downstream communities crucial minutes to respond.

Flash floods, triggered by an ice-rock avalanche near the Nepal-Tibet border on August 26, devastated towns and villages in northern and central Nepal.

The visit marked Nepal Finance Minister Swarnim Wagle's first official visit to India since assuming office.

Diplomatic leaders highlighted progress in energy, infrastructure, trade and people-to-people ties during farewell meeting.

UNICEF said that the psychological impact of the disaster could compound protection risks for vulnerable children, including through social isolation, stigma and reduced access to support services.

India and Nepal rescue teams are clearing the Chilime tunnel’s blocked section to reach six workers believed trapped inside.

The United States has now provided more than $5 million in humanitarian, health and forensic assistance following the floods.

The assessment estimates $2.7 billion in damage, including losses to infrastructure, roads and hydropower projects.

The disaster shows why Himalayan hazards need to be assessed together, from their source to their potential impact downstream.

According to the project manager, the powerhouse is about 60 metres further down the tunnel and the rescue teams were to continue working through the night to reach it, Srivastava said.