By Arpita Ghosh

Copyright timesnownews

At least 52 people have been killed in landslides, floods, and rain-related incidents across eastern Nepal in the past 24 hours, officials said Sunday. Most deaths occurred in Koshi Province, where torrential rainfall triggered widespread destruction, blocked roads, and swept away homes. Kalidas Dhaubaji, spokesperson for the Armed Police Force (APF), said majority of the deaths — from Saturday morning 10 am till Sunday 10 am — were from the worst hit Koshi province that saw floods, landslides, lightning and road accidents. The toll at 37 in this province. The monsoon remained active across five of Nepal’s seven provinces – Koshi, Madhes, Bagmati, Gandaki, and Lumbini. Rivers Overflow, Red Alerts Issued Heavy downpours since Friday pushed eight major rivers above danger levels, according to the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology, as quoted by local media. Authorities issued red alerts for the Bagmati and East Rapti river basins. Domestic flights from Kathmandu resumed on Sunday morning after improved weather conditions. Flights to several provinces had been grounded since Saturday due to poor visibility. Rescue and Relief Efforts Underway Rescue teams from the Nepal Army, Nepal Police, and APF were deployed across affected areas. Four people, including a pregnant woman, were airlifted from Ilam district to a hospital in Dharan for treatment. The government announced immediate relief of NPR 2,00,000 to the families of those who died and promised free medical treatment for the injured. Apart from the monetary compensation for the next of kin of the deceased, the injured will be provided with free treatment, a statement by the National Disaster and Risk Reduction Management Authority (NDRRMA) said. PM Modi Offers India’s Assistance Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over the loss of lives and offered support to Nepal. “The loss of lives and damage caused by heavy rains in Nepal is distressing. India stands with the people and government of Nepal in this difficult time,” Modi posted on X. “As a friendly neighbour and first responder, India remains committed to providing any assistance required,” he added. Widespread Damage and Trekkers Missing According to the NDRRMA, eight people died each in Deumai and Maijogmai municipalities, six each in Ilam and Sandakpur, five in Suryodaya, and several others across Panchthar, Udayapur, and Khotang districts. At least four people were swept away by the swollen river in Langtang Conservation Area of Rasuwa district, and one each remained missing due to floods in Ilam, Bara and Kathmandu. Those who were swept away in Langtang were part of a group of 16, who were on a trekking expedition in that area, Dhaubaji said. Landslides also blocked trekking routes in the Everest region, prompting authorities to urge tourists to use alternative trails. Travel Restrictions Remain in Place With some improvement in weather, the government allowed limited movement of vehicles for essential services and stranded passengers. However, night travel on risky highways remains banned until further notice.