A massive flash flood swept through Nepal’s Rasuwa district, near the border with Tibet, on Wednesday morning, washing away villages and project sites and raising fears of significant loss of life. The flooding reportedly struck the region at around 9 am local time, with authorities warning residents living along riverbanks to move to safer, higher ground.
According to preliminary information, around 1,000 people are feared to have been swept away in the floods. However, the figure has not yet been officially confirmed, and the extent of the casualties remains unclear as rescue and relief operations continue.
Rasuwa among worst-hit areas
The mountainous areas of Syapru Besi and Timure in Rasuwa district of Nepal have been severely affected, government officials said. The flash flood caused extensive damage in the region bordering Tibet, with villages and project sites reportedly washed away.
Authorities have urged residents living along the Bhote Koshi River to remain on high alert and move to higher ground amid fears of further flooding.
What caused the flash flood?
According to the Nepal Police, the flash flood was triggered by a massive rise in the water level of the Bhote Koshi River, which originates on the Tibetan side. Authorities have urged people living in districts along the Trishuli River basin, including Nuwakot, Dhading, Chitwan and Gorkha, as well as surrounding areas, to remain highly vigilant and stay in safe locations until further notice.
Rescue operations underway
Relief and rescue operations are currently underway in the affected areas. Emergency teams are assessing the extent of the destruction and searching for people who may have been swept away by the fast-moving floodwaters.
Officials have warned that the situation remains serious, with difficult mountainous terrain and damaged infrastructure potentially complicating rescue efforts.
The reported figure of around 1,000 people missing is yet to receive official confirmation. Authorities are expected to provide further details on casualties and damage as rescue teams gain access to the affected areas.
PM Balen Shah calls emergency meeting
Amid the widespread devastation caused by the sudden floods in Nepal, Prime Minister Balen Shah has called an emergency meeting of the National Disaster Management Council to review the situation and coordinate relief efforts.
His adviser Asim Shah said the prime minister is in direct contact with chief district officers in the affected areas and is closely monitoring the situation.
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