KATHMANDU – The capital of Nepal is reeling from devastating floods caused by relentless rainfall, resulting in the tragic loss of at least 32 lives with 12 individuals still missing, as reported by the police authorities on Saturday.
Rainfall has been incessant since Friday night and is forecasted to persist throughout the weekend. The downpour has led to the injury of seventeen people and the rescue of 1,053 individuals in Kathmandu, stated Nepal Police spokesman Bishwo Adhikari.
Efforts are underway with police personnel from across the country mobilized to contribute to the rescue operations during this calamitous time.
The government had issued preemptive flood warnings nationwide, cautioning the populace about the impending heavy rainfall. In response, buses were prohibited from nighttime travel on highways, cars were advised to stay off the roads, and security forces were placed on high alert.
Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak expressed concern about the reports of damage in various other regions of Nepal, emphasizing the government’s commitment to prioritizing rescue operations and assistance for the affected population.
The situation in Kathmandu remains dire, with swollen rivers inundating parts of the city, forcing residents to seek refuge on the upper floors of their homes. A significant portion of the southern region of the city has been submerged, necessitating the deployment of an army helicopter to evacuate individuals trapped in their residences.
Power outages and disrupted internet services have further exacerbated the crisis, leaving many residents in the dark and isolated.
Reports of landslides and flooding in various parts of the country underscore the widespread impact of the ongoing monsoon season, which commenced in June and typically concludes by mid-September.
Amidst these challenging circumstances, the resilience and solidarity of the Nepalese people shine through as communities come together to support one another in the face of adversity.
Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without permission.