Catastrophic Floods and Landslides Devastate Nepal

The death toll from recent floods and landslides in Nepal reached 148, with 43 fatalities in Kathmandu Valley. National highways blocked and numerous houses and bridges damaged. Over 20,000 security personnel are conducting rescue operations. Experts cite climate change and unplanned construction as exacerbating factors.

The death toll from rain-triggered floodings and landslides across Nepal climbed to 148 on Sunday, police reported.

Large areas of eastern and central Nepal have been inundated since Friday, with flash floods sweeping through parts of the country.

In Kathmandu Valley alone, 43 people have died due to the disaster, while 55 are missing and 101 injured, according to police and the Armed Police Force.

National highways have been blocked, stranding hundreds of people due to landslides. At least 322 houses and 16 bridges have been damaged.

Over 20,000 security personnel have been mobilised for rescue operations, moving nearly 3,626 people to safety.

Home Ministry spokesperson Rishiram Tiwari said all efforts are being made to reopen highways blocked by landslides.

Eyewitnesses claim to have never seen such devastation in Kathmandu Valley in 40-45 years.

The ongoing floods were triggered by a low-pressure system in the Bay of Bengal and an unusually northerly monsoon trough, according to a report by the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD).

Climate change and unplanned construction have contributed to the severity of the floods, experts said, highlighting the impact on infrastructure and families.

(With inputs from agencies.)