Nepal and India are grappling with catastrophic floods and landslides triggered by relentless heavy rains, leaving more than 60 people dead and dozens missing, officials said.
In Nepal, at least 44 people have died and five remain missing following landslides in the eastern district of Ilam and surrounding areas, authorities confirmed.
The worst-hit district, Ilam, saw 38 fatalities alone as overnight downpours swept through during the Dashain festival, burying homes and severing vital transportation links. Entire families were among the victims.
“The loss of lives and damage caused by heavy rains in Nepal is distressing. We stand with the people and Government of Nepal in this difficult time,” Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, pledging India’s support as a “friendly neighbour and first responder.”
Nepal’s Prime Minister Sushila Karki thanked Modi for his solidarity, saying, “The support from our friendly neighbour, India, in this difficult time is deeply appreciated by the people and Government of Nepal.”
Government agencies in Nepal are “fully prepared for rescue and relief,” Karki added, urging citizens to avoid unnecessary travel and announcing public holidays on Sunday and Monday.
Landslides have blocked several highways and disrupted flights, leaving hundreds of travellers stranded. Rivers have flooded roads across hill-ringed Kathmandu, cutting the capital off from much of the country.
In India, at least 20 people were killed in Darjeeling district, West Bengal, after flash floods and landslides destroyed homes and infrastructure.
The Indian Meteorological Department issued a red alert for “extremely heavy rainfall” in sub-Himalayan areas until Monday, while the Indian Army joined rescue operations in Bhutan and northern India.
In Nepal, as per reports, the floods have damaged the Jogmai Hydropower Project and cut power across Ilam district. Communication networks have collapsed in remote areas, leaving many villages isolated. Bridges along the Mechi Highway, the main link connecting Ilam to neighbouring districts, have been washed away, halting transport and supply chains.
Authorities continue rescue operations, with the Nepali Army evacuating the injured and local police coordinating relief efforts. Officials warned residents to stay away from landslide-prone areas as the region remains under threat from ongoing heavy rains.
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