The disaster in the Himalayas has claimed hundreds of lives, while more than 3,000 people remain missing. Rescuers are working their way through debris to reach flooded tunnels where hundreds more people could be trapped.
A large-scale rescue operation is still underway in Nepal and Tibet following devastating landslides and flash floods triggered by a glacier collapse, according to Reuters. The disaster swept through mountain valleys, destroying homes, roads and critical infrastructure.
According to the latest information, more than 750 people have died in Nepal, while around 2,500 remain missing. On the Chinese side of the border, 16 deaths have been confirmed and 546 people are still missing. Among those reported missing are 261 foreign nationals from 23 countries.
The situation at several hydropower facilities remains particularly critical. Hundreds of people could be trapped inside one of the tunnels at the Upper Trishuli complex. Rescuers have already reached the entrance and are clearing the debris, but explosives cannot be used due to the risk of further destruction.
Meanwhile, authorities in Nepal have begun mass burials of unidentified bodies. Many remains are so badly damaged that identifying the victims is currently impossible. Specialists are collecting DNA samples and documenting burial sites so that families may be able to identify their relatives in the future.
Chinese scientists say the disaster was linked to unstable glaciers amid the long-term effects of global warming.
Read also: Bodies of 72 Victims Found After Flooding in Nepal
