Kathmandu, Aug. 28 -- The Nepal government has reversed its earlier decision to not seek help from international search-and-rescue teams in the Bhotekoshi flash flood-hit areas, following intense diplomatic pressure from countries whose nationals are among people still missing in the disaster.

On Wednesday, the government said Nepali rescuers were capable of handling the search-and-rescue operations, and that it would not allow rescuers from other countries. The decision couldn't hold even a day, as the administration decided to seek limited foreign expertise for tunnel rescues, DNA testing and forensic examinations.

"We received massive pressure from the international community to allow at least search-and-rescue teams and some experts...