Katmandu: The death toll from the massive flash floods that struck Nepal and Tibet has climbed to 1,243, with rescue teams continuing to search for people feared trapped in tunnels and underground power facilities along the Bhotekoshi River.
Nepal Prime Minister Balendra Shah has urged the international community to take seriously the possible role of climate change in intensifying extreme weather events.
Search and rescue teams are working through heavy rain, mud and debris in several affected areas, nearly a week after the floods swept through towns and villages.
The disaster has also left thousands unaccounted for. Nepal Police said 4,875 people remain missing, while bodies have been recovered from eight flood-hit districts.
As hopes of finding survivors diminish, families of missing residents have begun conducting symbolic funeral rituals in some areas.
The floods have caused extensive damage across the Himalayan region, raising fresh concerns over the growing threat posed by extreme weather and the need for stronger disaster preparedness.
