7 killed after storms, rains hit NW Pak
PESHAWAR, June 14: At least seven people, including two children and a woman, were killed and 33 others injured in rain-related incidents across Pakistan’s northwestern province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa over the past 24 hours, disaster management officials said on Sunday. According to the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA), heavy rainfall, strong winds and lightning triggered roof and wall collapses in the districts of Bannu, Shangla and Mansehra, resulting in the fatalities and injuries. The PDMA also issued a warning about the risk of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) in the province’s upper regions. Authorities said rising temperatures combined with ongoing rainfall have accelerated glacier melting, increasing the likelihood of flash floods. Residents have been advised to stay away from riverbanks, seasonal streams and areas with strong water currents. District administrations have been directed to closely monitor vulnerable locations and ensure timely warnings and evacuations in high-risk areas to minimise potential loss of life and property. (PTI)
Nepal FM arrives in China amid hopes of ties reset
BEIJING, June 14: Nepal Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal arrived in China on Sunday for a four-day visit aimed at strengthening bilateral ties and outlining the foreign policy priorities of Nepal’s new government. The visit comes a week after his trip to India and follows the electoral victory of the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), which ended more than a decade of communist-led governments in Nepal. Khanal is scheduled to hold talks with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and other senior Chinese leaders. He said the visit would help dispel misconceptions about the RSP government’s foreign policy and build trust with Beijing. China expressed its willingness to deepen political and economic cooperation with Nepal, including under the Belt and Road Initiative. During the visit, Khanal will also attend an investment conference in Beijing and meet members of the Chinese business community to promote investment in Nepal. (PTI)
Woman falls to death in Brazil bungee jumping mishap
São Paulo, June 14: A 21-year-old woman, Maria Eduarda Rodrigues de Freitas, died in a tragic bungee-jumping accident in Limeira, São Paulo, after the safety rope was allegedly not attached before she was pushed off a bridge. Videos circulating on social media reportedly show crew members escorting her to the edge of the Skeleton Bridge while the safety rope remained on the ground. Witnesses realised the error moments after she fell approximately 130 feet, with bystanders heard shouting warnings. Emergency services were called immediately, but Maria was declared dead at the scene. Police recovered her body and launched an investigation into the incident. Six people were detained for questioning, and authorities are examining whether criminal charges can be brought against those responsible. (Agencies)
