The death toll from Nepal’s catastrophic flash floods has climbed to 1,003 as rescue crews continue searching submerged hydropower tunnels for hundreds of missing workers seven days after disaster struck northern areas near the Chinese border.
Authorities say almost 4,000 people remain unaccounted for, including about 590 foreign nationals from 39 countries, while approximately 11,800 people have been rescued. Particular attention is focused on tunnels along the Trishuli River corridor, with 639 people connected to hydropower projects listed as missing, although officials do not know how many remain underground or were swept away.
Nepalese Army teams, supported by specialists from India, China and South Korea, have entered several tunnel systems while crews pump out water, supply air and clear blocked access routes.
More than 21,000 security personnel are involved in rescue and relief operations, with food and emergency supplies being transported by road and helicopter.
Nepal has also requested specialised equipment, including LiDAR systems, high-capacity drones, temporary bridges and DNA testing kits, as authorities confront the enormous task of locating survivors and identifying victims.
🇳🇵 Salute to Our Nepal Army! 🫡❤️@NepalPoliceHQ
Risking their own lives without hesitation, Nepal Army personnel are tirelessly working on the front lines to rescue people affected by this devastating disaster.
Their courage, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication to saving… pic.twitter.com/e7d0lYFeOq
— Ananda Nepali (@anandanepali99) August 31, 2026
