Kathmandu: Rescue agencies in Nepal have evacuated more than 11,000 people from areas devastated by flash floods, as the government deployed over 22,000 security personnel to locate survivors and recover those still missing.
The death toll stood at 939 as of Monday, while about 4,000 people remained unaccounted for, National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA) spokesperson Shanti Mahat said on Tuesday.
At least 16 helicopters have been pressed into service to support rescue operations in remote and badly affected areas. Personnel from the Nepal Army are also taking part in the mission, Mahat said.
Workers Evacuated From Project
Rescuers have so far brought out 254 labourers and technicians from locations connected to the Upper Trishuli 1 Hydropower Project. The operation is continuing with support from tunnel-rescue specialists from India and China, as reported by India Today.
Officials said 927 bodies had been sealed and 51 of them were handed over to relatives after identification. A further 726 bodies remained unidentified, while 413 unidentified bodies had been managed or buried according to standard international norms.
The figures come as authorities continue to deal with the scale of the disaster and the difficulties involved in identifying victims and tracing missing people.
Bishnumati Crosses Danger Level
Temporary accommodation has been arranged for 2,970 people displaced by the floods at holding centres in different locations.
The NDRRMA separately issued a warning for communities near the Bishnumati River after the water level in the Gongabu area rose above the danger mark. Residents living along the riverbanks were asked to stay alert and follow safety precautions.
With the death toll continuing to rise, rescue teams remain deployed across the affected areas. Helicopters, security personnel and specialist teams are continuing efforts to find survivors, recover bodies and assist those moved to temporary shelters.
