Kathmandu, August 26
At least 26 employees of eight commercial banks remain out of contact following the devastating floods that swept through Rasuwa and surrounding areas, according to the Nepal Bankers’ Association.
The employees were working at eight bank branches located around the Bhotekoshi and Trishuli river corridors, including in Timure and Syafrubesi, when the floods hit.
Anil Sharma, CEO of the Nepal Bankers’ Association, said several bank branches in the affected areas have been completely damaged.
“Branches in Timure, Syafrubesi and other locations have been damaged. The employees who cannot be contacted are also from these areas,” Sharma said.
The association said branches of Prabhu Bank, Global IME Bank, Sanima Bank, Nepal Investment Mega Bank, Laxmi Sunrise Bank, NMB Bank and Machhapuchchhre Bank were among those affected. The total number of damaged branches is nine, although employees at eight branches remain out of contact.
The Development Bankers’ Association said development banks operating in the affected areas have not reported any damage so far.
Bank officials are currently prioritising locating and ensuring the safety of employees before assessing the extent of physical damage.
Sharma said access to the affected areas remains difficult, while damage to telephone and internet towers has further disrupted communication.
“Once we establish the whereabouts of the employees, we will assess the physical damage,” he said.
