Kathmandu, Aug 29: Nepal is grappling with a major flood disaster after catastrophic flooding swept through parts of the country, leaving hundreds dead and thousands missing, while rescue teams continue searching for survivors in difficult Himalayan terrain.

The disaster has caused extensive destruction across several affected districts, with floodwaters, mud and debris damaging homes, roads, bridges, hydropower projects and other critical infrastructure.

Rasuwa has emerged as one of the worst-affected areas, while flooding and landslides have also impacted communities in Nuwakot, Dhading and Gorkha. Several settlements have been cut off after roads and bridges were washed away.

Rescue operations are being carried out by the Nepal Army, police and other emergency agencies. Security personnel have been deployed across affected areas, while helicopters are being used to evacuate stranded residents and deliver emergency supplies to communities that remain inaccessible by road.

Authorities have also launched search operations for people reported missing following the sudden surge of water and debris. Rescue teams are facing difficult conditions because of unstable terrain, landslides, poor weather and damaged transport links.

The disaster has also affected foreign nationals, with authorities coordinating with embassies and families to locate people who remain unaccounted for. A number of foreign tourists and residents have already been rescued.

Officials are closely monitoring rivers and unstable water bodies in the affected Himalayan region amid concerns that further flooding could threaten downstream communities.

The situation has been particularly challenging in remote mountainous areas, where rescue teams have struggled to reach people because of damaged roads and communication infrastructure.

Nepal has sought technical assistance for specialised rescue and recovery operations, including efforts to reach people trapped in difficult locations, restore transportation and communication networks and identify recovered bodies.

India has also offered assistance to Nepal as the country continues its emergency response.

The economic impact is expected to be severe, with extensive damage reported to roads, bridges, hydropower facilities and other public infrastructure. The government is preparing emergency financial assistance for affected local administrations and beginning the process of assessing reconstruction requirements.

Authorities are simultaneously working to provide food, medical assistance and other essential supplies to displaced and stranded residents.

Search and rescue operations remain underway as emergency agencies continue efforts to locate missing people, recover bodies, evacuate vulnerable communities and restore essential connectivity across the affected areas.