World · India Bureau
Nearly 400 missing after sudden floods devastate central Nepal
A sudden surge in the Bhote Koshi River has killed at least four people and left nearly 400 missing, including 105 Indian nationals, across three central Nepal districts. The flash flood, likely triggered by heavy rainfall or an avalanche on the Tibetan side, has damaged multiple hydroelectric projects and caused extensive destruction along riverine settlements.
LSN India ·
A devastating flash flood swept through central Nepal early Wednesday, inundating districts bordering Tibet and leaving a trail of destruction across multiple settlements. The surge in the Bhote Koshi River, occurring around 9 am local time, affected Rasuwa, Dhading, and Nuwakot districts, with cascading impacts downstream into Chitwan district. Four deaths have been confirmed, while nearly 400 people remain unaccounted for, including 105 Indian nationals caught in the flooding.
Nepal's disaster management authorities attributed the sudden deluge to heavy rainfall or an avalanche on the Tibetan side rather than local precipitation in the Rasuwa district. The exact cause remains under investigation. The force of the floodwaters caused widespread devastation in Timure in Rasuwa district and the adjacent Syafrubesi area, sweeping away vehicles, goods, and infrastructure in its path.
The impact extended beyond human settlement. At least a dozen hydroelectric power projects in the region have sustained significant damage, threatening the country's energy infrastructure. The Nepal Army has been mobilized to support ongoing search and rescue operations in the affected areas.
Local authorities have placed Rasuwa, Nuwakot, Dhading, and Chitwan districts on high alert as rescue teams work to locate the missing and assess the full extent of the damage. Relief operations remain ongoing across the region.