At least 95 people have reportedly been killed and more than 300 others remain missing after flash floods swept through parts of Nepal.
Gatekeepers News reports that the flooding occurred along the Bhote Koshi River in Rasuwa district, north of Kathmandu, before spreading downstream to parts of Nuwakot and Dhading.
Preliminary reports suggest that an earthquake triggered an avalanche or mud-and-rock slide, sending a huge volume of water and debris into the river.
Reuters reported that a 4.4-magnitude earthquake may have triggered the collapse.
Videos from affected areas showed torrents of muddy water and debris sweeping through settlements, destroying bridges, vehicles and buildings. Several hydropower projects and other infrastructure were also damaged.
The Nepal Tourism Board said 384 travellers had been reported missing, including 291 foreign nationals and 93 Nepali nationals.
It said the list remained preliminary, with authorities working with travel agencies, guides and security agencies to verify the whereabouts of those listed.
Indian nationals make up the largest group among the missing foreigners, with 105 people reported unaccounted for.
The list also includes nationals from the United Kingdom, United States, Malaysia, South Africa, Australia and the Netherlands. Thirty-seven non-resident Indians are also among those reported missing.
Search and rescue operations underway
Nepal’s security agencies have launched search and rescue operations in the affected areas, while authorities have warned communities downstream to remain vigilant.
The flooding has disrupted roads, electricity and communications, with the main road linking the affected area to Kathmandu reportedly closed.
Shishir Khanal, Nepal’s foreign affairs minister, said several security personnel were also missing following the disaster, including police, armed police and military personnel.
The scale of the flooding has also raised concerns in neighbouring India, particularly in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, as rivers originating in Nepal flow into India’s northern plains.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has spoken with Nepal’s Prime Minister Balendra Shah and offered India’s support.
India is also preparing to send two military aircraft carrying relief supplies to assist with the response.
The latest disaster comes a year after deadly flooding in Rasuwa killed 18 people following a glacial lake outburst flood on the Chinese side of the border.
