KATHMANDU: Prime Minister Balen Shah has praised the courage and contribution of the Nepal Army, Nepal Police, and Armed Police Force personnel deployed in rescue and relief operations following the floods in the Bhote Koshi and Trishuli rivers. In a social media post on Sunday, the prime minister stated that the dedication and bravery shown by security forces during the disaster have allowed millions of citizens to feel safe.
According to the prime minister, a total of 13,391 people have been rescued from affected areas through the joint efforts of the security forces. Personnel have conducted rescues via land and air, and in some areas, carried the injured on their shoulders to reach hospitals. Shah highlighted the operation at the central prison in Bidur-6, Nuwakot, where security personnel safely relocated 923 inmates after the facility was damaged by floods. During the incident, security forces also recaptured 50 inmates who had escaped through broken walls and gates; some personnel were injured during the process.
Currently, 21,465 security personnel are deployed in the affected regions, including 9,287 from the Nepal Army, 7,975 from the Nepal Police, and 4,203 from the Armed Police Force. Despite damage to barracks and offices, and disruptions to water and communication services, the personnel continue to perform their duties with high morale, the prime minister noted.
The Nepal Army has established tactical headquarters and medical teams in Nuwakot and Rasuwa to facilitate rescues, bridge construction, and road clearance. The Nepal Police are engaged in search, rescue, relief distribution, and maintaining law and order, while the Armed Police Force is utilizing divers, drones, and canine units for search operations.
Prime Minister Shah reported that 45 army personnel, 25 police officers, and 12 armed police personnel remain missing. He expressed gratitude to the families of the security personnel and assured that the government will not compromise on their service, security, and facilities. He also thanked both domestic and international experts involved in the disaster management efforts.
