Kathmandu, Aug. 27:
Nepal Prime Minister Balen Shah has appealed to the people to stand together as the country grapples with the devastating aftermath of flash floods that have caused deaths, destruction and widespread disruption in the Himalayan region.
In his first remarks following the disaster, Shah expressed concern over the scale of the tragedy and emphasised the need for a coordinated national response.
The flash floods struck parts of northern Nepal with devastating force, sweeping away settlements, roads, bridges and other infrastructure.
The disaster has left communities cut off and created major challenges for rescue and relief agencies operating in difficult mountainous terrain.
Shah’s appeal for unity comes as government agencies, security personnel and emergency teams work to reach affected communities and provide assistance to survivors.
The Prime Minister’s remarks are expected to help mobilise a wider national response as Nepal deals with the immediate humanitarian crisis and prepares for the difficult task of rebuilding damaged infrastructure.
The floods have also affected areas close to the Tibet border, disrupting important transport and trade routes and leaving several travellers and pilgrims stranded.
The Nepal government faces the difficult task of simultaneously conducting search-and-rescue operations, providing emergency supplies and assessing damage to critical infrastructure.
The disaster has also prompted international assistance, with India sending humanitarian and disaster-relief supplies to support Nepal’s response.
As rescue operations continue, authorities are working to establish the final number of casualties and missing persons.
Shah’s call to stand together underscores the scale of the challenge facing Nepal as the country confronts one of the most destructive flash-flood disasters to hit the region in recent times.