SEARCH FOR MISSING ENDS AFTER DEVASTATING FLOODS

KATHMANDU, OCTOBER 7 /SRNA/ - The Nepalese Government has announced that the search and rescue operation following the devastating floods of August 26, which killed at least 1,455 people and left thousands still missing, is coming to an end.

A statement from the office of Prime Minister Balendra Shah said that the Government would focus on rehabilitation and reconstruction, including repairs to roads and bridges, particularly in remote areas where damaged infrastructure has made it difficult to deliver aid.

Family members of the 5,285 people reported missing, including hundreds of foreign nationals, have expressed mixed reactions. Some said they felt relieved, while others voiced dissatisfaction with the decision by the Nepalese Government, AP reported.

The Government estimates that reconstruction and recovery will cost $4.77 billion. Nearly 33,000 people were affected, while around 7,500 homes were damaged or destroyed.

The last missing people to be found alive were three workers trapped in a tunnel at the Trishuli 4 Hydropower Plant, who were rescued on September 4.