The death toll from the devastating flash floods in Nepal has surpassed 900, while the number of people reported missing has climbed sharply to 4,247, according to the latest figures.
The disaster has triggered a major search-and-rescue operation across affected areas, with emergency teams also working to rescue hundreds of people trapped inside tunnels at hydropower projects.
The number of missing people has risen significantly from the previously reported 2,502.
Of the 4,247 missing people:
Rescue teams are continuing searches for those still unaccounted for, although difficult terrain, debris and continuing risks are complicating the operations.
Officials have also stepped up efforts to reach hundreds of workers believed to be trapped inside tunnels at hydropower projects in the flood-hit areas.
At least 903 deaths have been confirmed in Nepal, according to the latest figures cited in reports.
The sharp rise in casualties reflects the continuing recovery of bodies from areas devastated by the sudden floods and landslides.
The disaster has caused widespread destruction in several parts of the country, leaving communities cut off and creating shortages of essential supplies.
One of the major challenges facing rescuers is locating workers trapped inside hydropower project tunnels.
According to reports, 933 hydropower workers from different projects are among those reported missing.
The rescue operation has been intensified around the Trishuli project area. In an effort to reach workers trapped inside a tunnel, authorities reportedly carried out a controlled explosion early Monday to clear a route and facilitate access.
Officials are continuing to assess the condition of the tunnels before attempting to bring the trapped workers to safety.
The disaster has also affected areas across the border in Tibet.
According to Chinese state media, 16 people have officially been confirmed dead in Tibet, while 546 people remain missing.
The situation in the Himalayan region has raised concerns about further flooding and landslides, particularly in areas where rivers, hydropower facilities, and settlements have been affected.
International assistance has also begun reaching Nepal as the scale of the disaster becomes clearer.
Countries including Australia have started providing assistance to those affected by the floods.
Emergency agencies and rescue teams remain focused on locating missing people, evacuating survivors and reaching those stranded in isolated areas.
The continuing increase in the death and missing-person figures underscores the enormous scale of the disaster, while authorities warn that the final toll could rise further as search operations continue.
