112 Dead as Torrential Rain Triggers Devastating Floods, Landslides in Nepal

Kathmandu: Severe floods and landslides caused by relentless rainfall have led to the death of at least 112 people in Nepal within the past 24 hours, according to official reports.

Over 100 individuals have sustained injuries, while rescue teams are searching for 68 missing persons in various flood-affected regions.

The Himalayan nation has been grappling with widespread inundation since Friday, with around 200 incidents of floods and landslides recorded. Authorities warn that the number may rise.

In the Kathmandu Valley, rivers have overflowed, submerging homes and forcing residents to flee. “I’ve never witnessed such devastation in my life,” said a resident near the overflowing Bagmati river.

Survivors have been spotted atop buildings or wading through floodwaters to escape the rising danger.

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority’s spokesperson, Basanta Adhikari, stated that relief and rescue efforts are ongoing. More than 3,000 security personnel, including helicopter and motorboat teams have been deployed. Landslides have also blocked key highways, stranding hundreds of travellers, while all domestic flights from Kathmandu have been suspended.

The South Asian monsoon, responsible for 70-80% of the region’s annual rainfall, often brings widespread destruction. Experts attribute the increasing frequency and severity of such disasters to climate change. This year, more than 220 people have died in rain-related incidents across Nepal.