Flood Destroys Nepal-China Friendship Bridge, Kills Eight, Dozens Missing

A devastating flood on the Bhote Koshi River at the Nepal-China border destroyed the Friendship Bridge, a vital trade link, resulting in at least eight deaths and leaving more than 18 people missing, including Nepalese and Chinese nationals. The flood, suspected to have been triggered by an overflowing glacial lake or permafrost collapse in Tibet following heavy rainfall, swept away homes, vehicles, and containers carrying goods, disrupting trade between the two countries. Rescue operations involving Nepalese army personnel and helicopters are ongoing, with dozens rescued and authorities prioritizing finding the missing. Nepal is collaborating with international initiatives like Sentinel Asia to investigate the disaster's causes amid a monsoon season expected to bring further severe weather. The disaster also heightened regional concerns as Pakistan continues to experience severe flooding with dozens of fatalities and fresh alerts issued for flash floods and glacial lake outbursts. The flood exemplifies the growing impact of climate change on glacial regions, complicating rescue and recovery efforts due to damaged infrastructure and rising water levels.