Symbolic funerals held in Nepal for missing flood victims

Symbolic funerals were conducted in several villages across Nepal on Saturday as families mourned relatives who remain missing after the deadly monsoon floods that swept the Himalayan nation earlier this month. The ceremonies, held without bodies, allowed communities to observe traditional rites and provide closure while search and rescue teams continue to comb the devastated river valleys for survivors and remains. According to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority, the floods, triggered by unprecedented rainfall, have claimed at least 150 lives, injured more than 300 people and left thousands homeless in the districts of Kaski, Lamjung and Gorkha.

Local officials said the symbolic rites, which included the lighting of incense, the placement of personal belongings on makeshift altars and the recitation of prayers, are intended to honor the missing and support grieving relatives. International aid agencies have dispatched additional relief supplies, while the government has pledged reconstruction of damaged infrastructure and the establishment of early‑warning systems to mitigate future disasters. The ceremonies underscore the ongoing humanitarian challenge as Nepal works to recover from one of its worst flood events in recent history.