Kathmandu on Tuesday, September 1, reported a death toll of 987 after the flash flood that devastated large parts of Nepal. Security forces continue to recover bodies while the search for the estimated 3,916 missing persons, including 583 foreign nationals, intensifies.
The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA) provided a district‑wise breakdown of recovered bodies: 321 in Chitwan, 216 in Nawalparasi East, 170 in Nawalparasi West and 95 in Nuwakot. Additional recoveries include 65 from Gorkha, 55 from Dhading, 38 from Tanahun and 27 from Rasuwa, bringing the total to eight districts affected.
Among the 279 injured, 168 have already been discharged after treatment in various hospitals. More than 11,000 residents have been rescued from flood‑hit zones, while over 22,000 security personnel, including Nepal Army units, remain on the ground conducting rescue and relief operations.
The Indian Embassy in Nepal issued a detailed nine‑step protocol for identifying and repatriating the mortal remains of foreign nationals, including Indians. The first four steps – documentation, photographic recording, post‑mortem examination and cause‑of‑death verification – will be handled by Nepali authorities. DNA, fingerprint and other forensic samples will be collected to match with first‑degree relatives, defined as parents, full siblings or children.
Relatives can submit DNA profiles via email or provide blood samples, and the embassy has set up three helpline numbers with WhatsApp support to assist families through the identification and handover process. Temporary interment of many remains aims to prevent health hazards, with Nepal pledging to facilitate DNA matching for those unable to be identified through photographs or descriptions posted on the Nepal Police website.
Image for illustration purposes only
📰 Source: Siasat Gulf