Kathmandu: The death toll from the devastating floods that swept across Nepal has crossed 1,400, with the latest government figures putting the number
of fatalities at 1,403. Thousands of people remain unaccounted for as search, rescue, identification and relief operations continue in the worst-affected districts. According to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA)’s search, rescue and relief update of September 16, a total of 13,742 people have been rescued so far. The disaster has also left around 6,150 people missing, which includes 587 foreign nationals. The authorities in Nepal are working continuously to trace survivors and identify recovered human remains. The disaster, which began with a massive flash flood in the Bhote Koshi River area of Rasuwa on August 26, has caused extensive loss of life and widespread damage to communities and infrastructure. There are six districts of Nepal which have been majorly effected with the floods which includes Rasuwa, Nuwakot, Dhading, Chitwan, Gorkha and Tanahu. Among the affected districts, Chitwan has recorded the highest number of deaths at 364. It is followed by Nawalparasi East with 232 deaths, Nawalparasi West with 222 deaths, Nuwakot with 202 deaths, Rasuwa with 193 deaths, Gorkha with 78 deaths, Dhading with 72 deaths and Tanahu with 38 deaths. An additional two deaths were recorded during treatment in Kathmandu, according to the government update. Of the 1,403 deceased, the details provided by authorities include 336 females, 544 males and 523 unidentified human remains. Authorities have so far handed over 105 identified bodies to families. The missing persons figure stands at approximately 6,150, including 587 foreign nationals. The government data shows that a large proportion of those missing are from Rasuwa and Nuwakot, two of the areas severely affected by the disaster. In Rasuwa, the figures include 1,393 local residents and 1,286 people from other districts reported missing. In Nuwakot, 651 local residents and 1,136 people from other districts remain unaccounted for. Authorities are using DNA testing as part of efforts to establish the identities of recovered remains and reconnect families with missing relatives. The NDRRMA update records 1,286 DNA samples collected from deaths and 1,889 samples from relatives, making a total of 3,175 samples referenced in the update. The government has also stated that relatives seeking DNA testing can submit samples to the relevant District Police Office, along with two photographs and proof of relationship. Despite the continuing search for missing people, rescue teams have managed to bring 13,742 people to safety. The Nepal Army has conducted 1,603 helicopter flights, including 42 flights on September 16. A total of 320 flights by APF-Nepal have also been recorded in affected areas. Food and non-food relief materials are continuing to be dispatched to affected districts by road and air. The government says details of relief distribution are being recorded through the Authority’s Setu App.
