Rasuwa – A major flash flood triggered by the Lende River flowing from Xizang, China, and merging with the Bhote Koshi River has caused significant destruction in Rasuwa and neighboring areas, prompting the government to intensify search, rescue and relief operations.
Houses in Timure Bazaar of Rasuwa and Trishuli Bazaar of Nuwakot have reportedly been swept away by the flood. The disaster has also disrupted electricity and telephone services, while hydropower projects in the affected region have been impacted.
At least 16 police personnel deployed at three police units in the Timure area via Rasuwagadhi have gone missing, Bagmati Province Deputy Inspector General of Police Deepak Regmi told Ratopati.
Nine police personnel, including an Assistant Sub-Inspector, were stationed at the Rasuwagadhi Police Post near the Nepal-China border. Another nine personnel, including an ASI, were deployed at the Syafrubesi Police Post, while the Timure Area Police Office operates under the leadership of an Inspector. Authorities are continuing to verify the number and whereabouts of the missing personnel.
All three police offices in the affected area have sustained damage. Personnel at the Rasuwagadhi post had been deployed for security of the customs area.
DIG Regmi said some of the missing personnel may have managed to reach safer locations but could have left their mobile phones behind. According to him, police personnel at Rasuwagadhi had very little time to move to safety, while those in Syafrubesi and Timure may have had around seven to 10 minutes to evacuate.
Meanwhile, Nepal Army helicopters have been mobilized for rescue operations in Rasuwa and Nuwakot, evacuating people stranded by the flooding and reaching affected settlements. Rescue teams are continuing efforts to locate and assist people trapped in flooded areas.
Reports have also emerged that tourists travelling toward Manasarovar are missing, although authorities are working to verify their status.
Prime Minister Balendra Shah has called a meeting of the National Council for Disaster Risk Reduction and Management following the disaster.
The meeting, held at the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers in Singha Durbar, was briefed on the extent of damage caused by the flood so far. Prime Minister Shah directed concerned authorities and stakeholders to take immediate steps for search, rescue, relief and response operations.
Prime Minister Shah also urged all concerned to mobilize from their respective areas and prioritize the rescue and relief of citizens affected by the disaster.
The flash flood has caused widespread disruption in the region, with power and telephone lines cut off and hydropower facilities affected. The full extent of casualties, missing persons and property damage remains unclear as rescue and assessment operations continue.
