RASUWA, NEPAL / RankWire.AI / – The UAE Search and Rescue Team is actively engaged in field operations within Nepal’s Rasuwa district following devastating floods that impacted the area. They are aiding Nepali authorities by conducting searches in damaged communities and challenging terrain. Using drones, aerial imaging, and three-dimensional mapping, the team is assessing affected zones. This technology provides detailed insights into areas where floodwaters have compromised roads, buildings, and critical infrastructure.
Coordination between UAE personnel and local officials ensures that teams are directed toward priority search zones across Rasuwa. Hamoud Al Afari, who oversees UAE relief efforts, highlighted that advanced technical tools are crucial in locating missing persons. The combined efforts include ground searches and aerial surveys, especially in regions where damaged roads hinder access. The main goal of the operation is to pinpoint affected sites, chart safe routes, and assist rescue teams operating within the flood-affected areas.
The UAE’s third relief flight brought the search and rescue team to Nepal on September 4, carrying 20 tonnes of humanitarian aid for communities impacted by flooding. This shipment contributed to the total relief supplies delivered by the UAE, which now amount to 148 tonnes. Dubai Police personnel joined the deployment, bringing specialized disaster response equipment. The UAE Aid Agency is managing a $10 million aid package that includes food, shelter supplies, generators, and other vital resources.
Rasuwa Operations Broaden as Search Efforts Continue
As of the evening of September 6, authorities in Rasuwa reported rescuing 1,356 individuals. Of these, 1,270 are Nepali citizens and 86 are foreigners. Helicopters have also transported 1,414 flood-affected individuals and stranded pilgrims to Nuwakot and Kathmandu. Officials are continuously updating the list of persons still unaccounted for, including residents, government workers, security personnel, bank employees, and visitors present in the affected zones during the floods.
In addition, 169 bodies have been recovered as search operations persist, with six victims identified by September 6. Nepal Police have requested relatives of missing Nepali and foreign nationals to submit DNA samples for identification. When possible, they prefer samples from immediate family members. Families abroad can send DNA data electronically for comparison with recovered remains. The authorities are updating missing persons and identification records as new information emerges from ongoing field operations.
Rescue and Relief Efforts in Flood-Stricken Areas
Nepal’s Ministry of Home Affairs stated that the flood from the Bhote Koshi River affected Rasuwa at approximately 8:40 a.m. on Aug. 26. Floodwaters also caused damage along riverbank regions in Nuwakot, Dhading, and Gorkha districts. The government responded with rescue, search, and emergency relief operations shortly after the disaster. Damage assessments have recorded destruction of roads, bridges, homes, schools, banks, and hydropower facilities. Relief efforts include distributing supplies while officials evaluate the extent of damage in affected communities.
The focus of the UAE team remains on conducting searches, aerial assessments, and detailed mapping for ground crews. Distributing food and essential items continues in communities impacted by flooding and landslides. Nepali authorities are actively involved in rescue, recovery, and identification work, maintaining updated records of missing individuals. As of September 7, these figures are subject to change as field teams continue to report new developments from search sites.