At least 160 people have been killed and hundreds remain missing after a catastrophic flash flood and debris flow struck the Nepal-Tibet border region, destroying villages, roads, bridges and power infrastructure.
The disaster began high in the Himalayas before a surge of water, ice, rock and mud swept through the Bhote Koshi and Trishuli river valleys. Scientists are investigating whether the collapse of part of a glacier triggered the event. Early suggestions that an earthquake was responsible remain unconfirmed.
Hundreds of travellers were listed as unaccounted for, although Nepal’s Tourism Board stressed that its figures were preliminary and included people whose locations had not yet been verified.
Travellers connected with Trekkers Society, Samrat Tours & Travels, Leaf Holiday, Himalayan Glacier, Kailash Journey, Fishtail Tours & Travels, Alpine Eco Trek, Kathmandu Holiday Tours & Travel, Richa Tours & Travels and Explore Vacation were among those reported out of contact. The affected region is an important gateway for journeys to Tibet and the Mount Kailash pilgrimage route.
According to ABC News, all travellers with Intrepid and G Adventures are safe and accounted for.
Rescue operations involving helicopters and ground crews were being hampered by destroyed roads, unstable debris and high river levels. Authorities also warned of further flooding if temporary upstream blockages collapsed.
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Sources include: Reuters, Nepal News,
Images: Reuters
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