Heavy monsoon rains have caused widespread destruction in Nepal and India, leaving more than 60 people dead as rescue teams race to reach cut-off communities in mountainous regions. Monsoon season, typically running from June to September, has intensified in recent years, causing deadly floods and landslides.
Severe Impact in Nepal
Since Friday, torrential rains have lashed Nepal, swelling rivers and inundating settlements. According to Shanti Mahat, spokeswoman for Nepal’s National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority, 44 people have died and five remain missing, with the eastern district of Illam reporting 37 fatalities from landslides.
Local official Sunita Nepal said, “Heavy rains overnight caused the landslides. Rescue workers have reached affected areas, but blocked roads are slowing operations.” In Kathmandu, rivers have overflowed, prompting evacuations with the help of helicopters and motorboats.
Prime Minister Sushila Karki declared Sunday and Monday as public holidays and urged residents to avoid unnecessary travel, assuring that rescue and relief efforts are underway.
Fatal Flooding in India
Across the border in Darjeeling, West Bengal, at least 20 people died as flash floods and landslides destroyed homes and infrastructure. Lawmaker Harsh Vardhan Shringla said: “Over 20 people have lost their lives due to heavy overnight rainfall in the Darjeeling hills.”
The Indian Meteorological Department issued a red alert for extremely heavy rainfall in sub-Himalayan regions, including Darjeeling, until Monday. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences and confirmed ongoing monitoring of the situation.
Regional Humanitarian Efforts
Relentless rains have also impacted Bhutan, prompting the Indian Army to assist with evacuations in border towns like Phuentsholing. Military helicopters rescued several stranded civilians, highlighting the cross-border consequences of the monsoon crisis.
Authorities in both countries continue to coordinate relief efforts, urging residents to exercise caution as severe weather persists.
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