In a reversal, Nepal agrees to foreign help for flood rescue
Summary
Nepal has reversed its earlier refusal and will now allow limited foreign assistance for tunnel rescues, DNA testing and forensic work after the Bhotekoshi flash flood left more than 550 dead and 977 missing. India, China, Australia and South Korea have been cleared to send expert teams as pressure mounted from countries with missing nationals.
Key Points
- The Nepal government has reversed its decision and will allow limited foreign experts for flood-related rescue and identification work.
- Support will focus on tunnel rescues in Rasuwa and Nuwakot, along with DNA testing and forensic examinations.
- More than 550 people have been confirmed dead, while 977 remain missing, including 517 foreigners from 31 countries.
- India and South Korea have publicly offered rescue teams and other assistance, and Nepal says it will accept help only in identified areas of need.
