Nepal has declined offers of foreign assistance for search and rescue operations following recent flash floods, citing the capability of its own security agencies. Lok Bahadur Chhetri, spokesperson for Nepal's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, announced on 28/8 that while international support offers are appreciated, they are not currently needed.

This decision stems from recommendations by the military and police, informed by the challenges faced during the 2015 earthquake. A senior Nepali diplomatic official explained that the influx of numerous international rescue teams then, coupled with competition among nations, created significant coordination and management issues.

To address concerns regarding foreign nationals, a deputy foreign minister traveled to Timure village in Rasuwa district. The objective is to coordinate with local security forces and determine the status of missing foreigners.

Search and rescue teams use a bulldozer to move victims to safety in Nuwakot district, Nepal, on 26/8. *Photo: AP*

The Kathmandu Post reported that countries including the UK, India, Bangladesh, South Korea, the US, Japan, Sri Lanka, and China, along with several international organizations, extended offers to send rescue teams. Many also expressed readiness to support Nepal's post-disaster recovery and reconstruction efforts, with some nations announcing financial aid.

Nepali officials have indicated a preference for financial contributions, suggesting these be channeled through a centralized reception mechanism. The government plans to solicit financial aid and other forms of support during the later reconstruction phase.

The flash floods have caused significant casualties. Nepal's National Disaster Management Authority confirmed 579 fatalities by the morning of 29/8. The number of missing persons rose to 1.924 after 933 workers from hydropower plant projects were added to the list.

China's state broadcaster CCTV reported 5 fatalities and 558 missing victims as of 3 PM on 28/8.

The disaster has resulted in a total of 584 deaths and 2.478 missing individuals across the affected regions.

Locations of areas affected by flash floods in Nepal. *Graphic: Guardian*

India's Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, announced that India had dispatched over 47,5 tons of relief supplies and offered modular bridges to Nepal.

The UK, the US, and the World Bank have committed financial aid. Masato Kanda, President of the Asian Development Bank (ADB), affirmed that beyond emergency assistance, the ADB would continue to support Nepal in strengthening its disaster response capabilities and enhancing resilience against future natural disasters.

Nguyen Tien (According to Reuters, AFP, Kathmandu Post)