Lagatar24 Desk
Kathmandu: Nepal has declined offers from several countries to deploy search and rescue teams following devastating flash floods that have killed at least 469 people and left hundreds missing, stating that its own security agencies are fully capable of leading the operation, as rescue efforts continue amid mud and debris along the Bhotekoshi and Trishuli river systems near the Nepal-China border.
Foreign Ministry Turns Down Multiple International Requests
According to reports, Nepal’s foreign ministry has received several official and unofficial requests from countries and international organisations seeking to send their own rescue personnel, but officials confirmed the government decided that Nepali security agencies should lead the operation instead. A foreign ministry official noted that requests from China and other countries were similarly turned down, with the ministry stating clearly that Nepal did not require rescue assistance from other countries.
Decision Rooted in Coordination Challenges from 2015 Earthquake
The decision was reportedly influenced in part by Nepal’s experience following the 2015 earthquake, when the arrival of numerous foreign rescue teams created coordination and management difficulties. Instead of foreign rescue personnel, Nepal is seeking financial assistance channelled through a single mechanism, with officials indicating that further international support would be sought during the rehabilitation and reconstruction phases.
Nearly 1,000 People Remain Missing, Over 4,300 Personnel Deployed
Nepal Police confirmed on Friday that 469 people had died, while 1,545 had been rescued and treated for injuries. Nearly 1,000 people remain missing, according to disaster authorities, including 28 police personnel unaccounted for. Nepal Police has deployed 4,348 personnel for search and rescue operations, having rescued 644 people from Rasuwa, 898 from Nuwakot and three from Dhading.
Foreign Nationals Among the Missing
Foreign nationals are among those unaccounted for, with 178 Indians, 65 Americans, 51 Malaysians, 53 Ukrainians, 33 Britons, 35 Australians and 25 Canadians reported missing, alongside citizens from dozens of other countries. Chinese officials have separately stated that at least 100 Chinese nationals remain out of contact.
Nepal Welcomes International Financial and Humanitarian Aid
Despite declining foreign rescue teams, Nepal has welcomed international financial and humanitarian assistance, with the United States pledging $500,000 and the World Health Organization dispatching emergency medical supplies. The foreign ministry has also established an Emergency Control Room to coordinate information, search and rescue efforts, and consular assistance for foreign nationals affected by the floods.
