A sudden and devastating flood struck Nepal’s mountainous region on Wednesday after floodwaters surged into the Bhotekoshi River, reportedly originating from the Tibetan side of the Nepal-China border. The disaster has caused widespread destruction in several areas, damaging homes, roads, bridges and power infrastructure.
At least 16 people have died so far in the flash floods and landslides in Nepal’s Rasuwa, Nuwakot and Dhading districts, while several others remain missing. Reports suggest that 105 Indian nationals are among those reported missing. Authorities fear that the death toll could rise as rescue teams continue their operations in affected areas.
The Rasuwa district, located along the Nepal-China border, has been particularly badly affected. Severe flooding and landslides have damaged houses, roads and other infrastructure, while several villages have reportedly been swept away by the powerful flow of water.
The disaster has also left hundreds of Kailash Mansarovar pilgrims stranded in the Rasuwagadhi area. Around 390 pilgrims, including 93 Nepali nationals, were scheduled to cross into China on Wednesday. According to Basu Kumar Adhikari, Managing Director of Touch Kailash Travels and Tours in Kathmandu, only a few pilgrims could be contacted by around 3 pm, while there was no reliable information about many others.
Rescue and relief operations are underway, but communication remains disrupted in several affected areas, making it difficult for authorities to establish the exact number of missing people and assess the full extent of the damage.
The situation has also triggered concern in neighbouring India, particularly in Bihar, where authorities have issued alerts over the possible impact of the rising water levels. Union Home Minister Amit Shah has personally spoken with Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary to review the state’s preparedness and the situation arising from the floods.
Meanwhile, the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu has issued emergency helpline numbers to assist Indian nationals affected by the disaster. Indian citizens requiring assistance can contact +977 985 131 6807 or +977 970 910 7500.
With rescue operations continuing and several people still unaccounted for, authorities remain on high alert across the affected regions.