Authorities release verified list of 2,294 missing in Bhote Koshi flood

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority has published a verified list of 2,294 people missing across 32 districts following the Bhote Koshi flood.

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA) released the list based on data verified by District Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Committees. According to OnlineKhabar, Rasuwa has the highest number of missing persons with 1,583 recorded cases. BBC News Nepal noted that while the current list covers 32 districts, heavily impacted areas like Nuwakot are not yet included as verification continues.

The publication includes 171 foreign nationals from seven countries whose details were confirmed through diplomatic missions and the Department of Consular Services. BBC News Nepal reported that while authorities previously estimated 636 foreign nationals were missing, this specific notice only covers those whose details have been fully verified so far.

The NDRRMA has granted a seven-day period for individuals or immediate family members to submit claims if anyone listed as missing is actually alive or has been found. This step is part of a legal process to eventually declare the missing as deceased. BBC News Nepal quoted authority spokesperson Ram Bahadur KC, who said the list will be sent to the Council of Ministers for a final decision after being approved by the NDRRMA executive committee.

Outlets reported slightly different figures for the disaster's total impact. OnlineKhabar cited 1,457 deaths, while BBC News Nepal reported 1,464 fatalities. Both sources confirmed that 5,285 people were initially reported missing following the floods that began in late August.

Background

The Bhote Koshi floods were triggered on Bhadra 10. Following the disaster, the government established a procedure to collect verified names through local recommendations and district committee decisions before proceeding with official death declarations.