Kathmandu: Devastating flash floods in Nepal’s Rasuwa district, bordering Tibet, have resulted in nearly 400 people missing, including 105 Indian nationals. The sudden deluge occurred on Wednesday, causing extensive damage and sweeping away settlements along the river.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that a massive flood surged through the Bhote Koshi River at approximately 9 a.m. local time, originating from the Tibet side. The inundation primarily affected the Rasuwa and Dhading districts, which share a border with Tibet, as well as Nuwakot district, located southwest of the capital, Kathmandu. Four individuals have been confirmed dead in the incident.
The Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) reported that a total of 384 travellers are unaccounted for following the floods in Rasuwa. This figure comprises 291 foreign nationals and 93 Nepalese citizens. Among the missing foreign travellers are 105 Indian tourists and 37 Non-Resident Indians (NRIs). The remaining missing individuals are from countries including the United States, Malaysia, the United Kingdom, South Africa, Australia, and the Netherlands.
The floods have caused significant devastation to communities situated along the riverbanks and have damaged at least a dozen hydropower projects. The force of the water, originating from the Tibetan plateau, overwhelmed infrastructure and natural barriers in the mountainous region. Search and rescue operations are underway, though challenging conditions in the affected areas are hampering efforts.
In response to the crisis, the Nepal Tourism Board has provided emergency contact numbers for assistance. Travellers or their families seeking information or help can contact the toll-free emergency number 1234, the hotline number 1144, or the tourist police directly at 9851289445. Authorities are coordinating efforts to ascertain the full extent of the disaster and to provide aid to those affected.
The region, known for its trekking routes and proximity to the Tibetan border, often experiences heavy rainfall during the monsoon season, which can lead to flash floods. However, the scale and suddenness of this particular event have been exceptionally severe. The affected districts are remote, making immediate access and communication difficult for rescue teams.
The Nepalese government, in collaboration with international aid agencies and local authorities, is mobilizing resources to support the ongoing rescue and relief operations. Efforts are also being made to provide shelter and essential supplies to those who have been displaced by the floods. The focus remains on locating the missing individuals and assessing the damage to critical infrastructure.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
