In brief
When a sudden glacial collapse triggered a flash flood in the Nuwakot district, more than 1,200 people died and thousands remain missing. On Monday, Nepalis observed a national day of mourning, lighting candles and flying flags at half‑mast. Rescue crews continue to hunt for survivors in towns, tunnels, and hydropower sites, with little public gathering due to ongoing operations. President Ram Chandra Paudel toured the wreckage, while army spokesmen stressed a steady search effort. Even amid devastation the first rescue of a 64‑year‑old woman gave a glimmer of hope for the many still trapped.
The flood that shook a nation
A glacial collapse in the Nuwakot valley sent torrents of water, rock and mud down the Himalayan gorge, wiping out quaint villages along the Nepal‑Tibet border. Over 1,200 souls were lost, and more than 5,000 people remain missing.
Citizens light candles, flags at half‑mast
On Monday, people across Nepal lit candles on the last day of the traditional 13‑day mourning ritual, a quiet tribute to the victims. The national flag flew at half‑mast, while the government cut back on public ceremonies because rescue teams were still on the ground.
The rescue brigade in action
Army spokesperson Raja Ram Basnet said their tempo remained steady from day one, searching from ground, by air and inside tunnels of hydropower stations. A key hope has emerged – the tunnels still hold strangers who could survive.
A glimmer of hope
Four people have been rescued so far, including a 64‑year‑old Nepali woman pulled from her buried house after ten days of being trapped. Her rescue, along with others recovered from tunnels, shows that the search has not ended.
What’s next?
With President Ram Chandra Paudel touring the devastated districts, the nation watches each day, holding prayers and working to find those still missing. Support, solidarity and swift aid remain essential as rescue crews press on.
