First priority of government is to save life of every citizen, says Nepal PM Shah

Nepal Prime Minister Balendra Shah on Saturday said the government was working to protect flood-affected citizens as the death toll from flash floods in central Nepal rose to 675.

More bodies were recovered as search operations continued, while more than 2,400 people remained missing after the disaster.

Shah said the government was taking the damage caused by the floods in Rasuwa, Nuwakot, Dhading and other downstream areas seriously and had stepped up search, rescue and relief operations.

“It is the first priority of the state to save the life of each and every citizen through the mobilisation of all the state mechanism,” he said.

Over 7,500 people evacuated

Despite difficult weather and challenging terrain, 7,514 people had been evacuated to safety through air and land routes by Saturday evening, Shah said.

Rescue teams have also been working at hydropower project sites where people were trapped following the floods. So far, 279 people have been evacuated from these locations, while efforts to reach others are continuing.

Indian and Chinese experts have also joined the rescue operations in coordination with the Nepal Army, according to Shah.

Helicopters, security personnel deployed

A total of 16 helicopters, including those operated by the Nepal Army and private companies, are being used in the rescue effort.

The helicopters have completed 236 flights so far, Shah said. The government has also mobilised 18,708 security personnel from various agencies, including the Nepal Army, for search and rescue operations.

“We are also receiving support and assistance from the international community in the rescue works,” said the prime minister.

Shelter and medical support arranged

The government has arranged temporary accommodation for around 3,500 displaced people in schools and community buildings, Shah said. Authorities are also providing food and other essential items to those staying at these locations.

Free medical treatment has been arranged for people injured in the floods, while psychological counselling is being provided to those who need it.

Shah said rescue, relief and other operations would continue despite the difficult conditions in the affected areas.