Full Breakdown
Nepal Ends Search and Rescue Operations After August Floods
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End of Search and Rescue Operations
On October 5, Nepalese officials announced that the nationwide search-and-rescue effort for individuals still missing after the August 26 flood had been concluded. The government said it is now shifting from the rescue phase to a “search-and-rehabilitation” phase, focusing on rebuilding homes, infrastructure, and supporting displaced families.
Impact and Ongoing Recovery
The flood, which began on August 26 along Nepal’s border with China’s Tibet Autonomous Region, killed at least 1,455 people. Officials reported that 5,285 people remained missing and 13,795 had been rescued. The disaster destroyed 12 hydroelectric projects, along with numerous roads, bridges, farms, and settlements. Authorities estimate that nearly $5 billion is required for early reconstruction and the rehabilitation of thousands of displaced residents.
Official Statements & Responses
Phanindra Poudel, head of the National Emergency Operations Center, told Reuters that the authorities are preparing legal processes to allow families of the missing to settle insurance, banking, and other formalities. Dharam Raj Upreti, head of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority, said active searches for bodies will cease, but any remains, property, or valuables uncovered during rehabilitation will be recovered, and emergency rescues will continue if needed.
Data and Statistics
- Fatalities: >= 1,455
- Missing persons: 5,285 (as of August 26)
- Rescued individuals: 13,795
- Destroyed hydroelectric facilities: 12
- Estimated reconstruction cost: ? $5 billion
Verbatim Quotes
- “We are initiating due processes to complete required legal formalities,” — Paudel, chief of the National Emergency Operation Centre
- “We are moving from the search-and-rescue phase to the search-and-recovery phase,” — Phanindra Poudel
- “We are initiating the relevant processes to fulfill the necessary legal formalities,” — Phanindra Poudel