Nepal Urges Villagers to Evacuate Following Major River Flood Triggered by Landslide

Nepal landslide flood

Nepali authorities have issued urgent evacuation advisories to villagers residing along major river basins after a powerful flood struck the central region of the country. The disaster, triggered by a sudden dry landslide in the mountainous terrain, swept away multiple residential properties, crucial infrastructure, and communication links. While rescue teams have responded rapidly to the crisis, local administrations remain on high alert to prevent any loss of life as water levels continue to rise.

Landslide Blocks Budhi Gandaki River in Gorkha District

The emergency unfolded in the remote Chumnubri village located within the Gorkha district, approximately 100 kilometers (62 miles) west of the capital city, Kathmandu. According to disaster management officials, a massive dry landslide struck the area, temporarily blocking the flow of the Budhi Gandaki River. The obstruction caused a sudden surge of water and muddy sludge, resulting in severe downstream flooding.

Dharmendra Kumar Mishra, the senior bureaucrat serving as the chief administrator of the Gorkha district, emphasized the gravity of the situation. Authorities have directed all residents living along vulnerable riverbanks to move immediately to designated higher grounds and safe evacuation shelters. Initial damage assessments indicate that roughly a dozen houses, two major suspension bridges, and a local hydroelectric project camp have been completely destroyed or severely impacted by the rushing torrents.

Rescue Operations and Nationwide High Alert

The flooded Budhi Gandaki River—a major tributary of the Trishuli River—has also washed away a critical highway bridge connecting the Gorkha district with the neighbouring Dhading district, disrupting transport networks. Dharam Raj Uprety, chief of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA), confirmed that 18 workers stationed at the damaged hydroelectric camp managed to escape to safety. Additionally, security forces and the national army successfully rescued six individuals trapped in the vulnerable locality of Jagat, as directed by Prime Minister Balendra Shah through official communication channels.

In response to the escalating crisis, national disaster response units have extended red alerts across multiple districts, including Gorkha, Tanahun, Chitwan, East Nawalparasi, and West Nawalparasi. Emergency personnel, supported by aerial monitoring helicopters, are actively patrolling the affected zones to assist stranded citizens. Officials continue to urge community members and local volunteers to cooperate fully with rescue personnel to ensure that all residents in high-risk areas are secured.

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