A devastating flash flood swept through Nepal's Rasuwa district on Wednesday, August 26, leaving 384 travelers missing, according to a preliminary list released by the Nepal Tourism Board. Among those unaccounted for are 105 Indian nationals, forming the largest identified group of foreign travelers.
Extensive Damage Along Bhote Koshi River
The flash flood occurred around 9 AM local time, surging through the Bhote Koshi River with waters reportedly originating from Tibet. The sudden rise in the river's level caused widespread destruction in the Timure and Syafrubesi areas. Vehicles, goods, bridges, and other critical infrastructure were washed away by the torrent.
The disaster has severely impacted Nepal's vital trade route with Tibet, particularly around Rasuwagadhi, a significant border crossing. Officials have confirmed that multiple settlements along the river have been affected, and various hydropower and infrastructure projects have sustained considerable damage.
Multi-Agency Rescue Operations Underway
In response to the emergency, the Nepal Army, Armed Police Force, and Nepal Police have launched extensive search-and-rescue operations across Rasuwa and its neighboring regions. The Nepal Army has deployed helicopters and specialized disaster-response teams to reach stranded individuals and assess the full extent of the devastation.
Deputy Inspector General Abinarayan Kafle, spokesperson for the Nepal Police, highlighted the scale of the calamity. "We do not exactly know the extent of damage, but the flood is big, and it could have damaged many settlements," Kafle stated, adding that riverside communities have been alerted to relocate. Authorities are currently working to compile detailed information regarding the damage.
Tourism Board Coordinates Search Efforts
The Nepal Tourism Board is actively coordinating with travel agencies, local authorities, guides, and security agencies to verify the whereabouts and safety of the missing travelers. The board emphasized that the released list is preliminary, and efforts to confirm the status of those named are ongoing. As rescue teams continue their operations, the situation remains fluid, with continuous assessment and search efforts across the affected areas.