Ten Missing as Budhi Gandaki River Floods Gorkha, Nepal
Severe flooding in Gorkha district has led to the disappearance of ten individuals and the destruction of six bridges.
Flooding in Gorkha district has left ten people missing.
Six bridges, including key motorable and suspension structures, were swept away.
Rescue operations are underway, with the Nepal Army deployed for assistance.
In a devastating incident early Sunday, severe flooding along the Budhi Gandaki River in Gorkha district, Nepal, has resulted in ten individuals being reported missing. The floodwaters struck around 4 AM, causing significant destruction, including the loss of six bridges and damage to numerous homes, prompting evacuations in the affected areas.
The flooding has been particularly impactful in the northern region of Gorkha, where local authorities are closely monitoring the fluctuating water levels of the Budhi Gandaki River. Assistant Chief District Officer Netra Prasad Sharma confirmed the missing persons and highlighted the ongoing efforts to assess the situation. "We are constantly monitoring the flow," Sharma stated, emphasizing the need for vigilance as the river's water levels continue to rise and fall.
Among the infrastructure severely affected, six bridges were reported swept away, including two motorable bridges and four suspension bridges. Key locations such as Arughat, Tripurasundari, and Soti-Manbu were among those impacted. Additionally, nearly 35 houses in the Painyu and Bagar areas of Chumnubri Rural Municipality were destroyed, with other settlements like Jagat and Salleri also suffering damage.
The Nepal Army has mobilized teams for search and rescue operations, deploying both air and land resources. Prime Minister Balen Shah confirmed that helicopters were utilized to support relief efforts, and a rapid response team from Kathmandu was airlifted to the affected region, approximately 184 km from the capital. Home Minister Sudan Gurung urged residents in vulnerable areas to evacuate immediately, as muddy floodwaters have begun to enter homes in Ghattekhola.
This flooding incident follows a previous disaster in August, when the Bhote Koshi River floods in Rasuwa district resulted in significant casualties. As rescue teams continue their operations in Gorkha, local authorities are urging residents to remain alert and follow evacuation orders to ensure their safety.
