Kathmandu: Security personnel from the Nepal Army, Nepal Police and Armed Police Force (APF) have been deployed to flood-affected areas of Rasuwa and the Bhotekoshi River basin with additional rescue equipment.
The Home Minister reached Tribhuvan International Airport and briefed and saw off a joint team from the three security agencies for rescue and relief operations. He emphasized close coordination among security agencies and rapid mobilization to make search, rescue and relief efforts more effective.

Speaking to journalists at the airport, the Home Minister said protecting and rescuing citizens was the government’s top priority. He said all available helicopters had been mobilized to complete as much rescue work as possible before nightfall, while flights for private purposes had been suspended to focus entirely on rescue operations.
“The first priority is rescue. We have already mobilized all helicopters. No one will be allowed to operate flights for private purposes at present. All helicopters are focused solely on rescue because operations become more difficult after nightfall,” he said.

He added that arrangements for relief and temporary accommodation would be made for affected people immediately after the rescue operations.
Providing an update on the flood situation, the Home Minister said a massive flood had occurred after a glacial lake burst in the upper reaches, sweeping away settlements in the area. He said it would take additional time to assess the full extent of the damage.

“We have received information that the flood level is still around seven meters high. Therefore, we have kept the entire response mechanism on high alert,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Home Minister urged people stranded in flood-affected areas to light fires and use smoke as a signal to attract the attention of rescue teams.

“Those who urgently need rescue should light a fire in a safe location so that helicopter teams can more easily identify their location. I request all affected people, where possible, to light a fire near an open area suitable for use as a helipad and signal for help through smoke,” he said.
The Home Minister also urged affected residents to remain in safe locations, avoid unnecessary risks and follow the instructions of rescue teams.