Farewell To Flood Victims
Summary
The Bhotekoshi flood has left at least 1,367 people dead and 5,132 missing, forcing grieving families to perform symbolic last rites for loved ones they could not find. Kathmandu’s mourning houses are full, and the Pashupati Area Development Trust has waived cremation fees to help affected families.
Key Points
- The Bhotekoshi flood on August 26 caused massive destruction, killing at least 1,367 people and leaving 5,132 missing.
- Many families have performed symbolic funeral rites using Kusha effigies and other Hindu traditions because their relatives remain unaccounted for.
- The Pashupati Area Development Trust has waived cremation fees and converted a building in Bankali into a mourning house as facilities filled up.
- Some Tamang families are observing the Ghewa ritual, while funeral pyres are being lit without bodies in Pashupati.
