Rasuwa, August 26
A massive flood originating from China has caused extensive damage in Rasuwa and Nuwakot, sweeping away settlements along the Bhotekoshi River and leaving many residents out of contact.
The extent of the damage is yet to be confirmed, with authorities currently unable to establish contact with people in several areas.
Several local levels, including Gosaikunda Rural Municipality in Rasuwa, have reportedly been badly affected. Many residents are out of contact, while others are waiting to be rescued.
Dawa Sirdar Waiba, chairperson of Gosaikunda Rural Municipality-6 in Dhunche, said authorities have been unable to establish contact with anyone from Syafrubesi to Timure.
“We are here in Dhunche, the district headquarters of Rasuwa. We have no information about how much damage has been caused down there,” Waiba said.
“We have not been able to contact anyone from Syafrubesi Bazaar down to Timure. We cannot go there either.”
A Nepal Army helicopter had recently flown towards the affected area, he said, adding that authorities may receive more information after it returns.
Communication cut off in affected areas
Waiba said there were reports that the flood had reached Syafrubesi Bazaar, but authorities had not yet been able to verify the situation.
“There is a rumour that the flood has reached Syafrubesi Bazaar,” he said. “We do not know why those below have lost contact. It could be because telephone towers have been damaged, or there could be another problem. We cannot say for certain at this point.”
He said further information would become available once rescue personnel reach the affected areas.
Meanwhile, the government has mobilised the Nepal Army, Armed Police Force and Nepal Police for search, rescue and relief operations.
Two Nepal Army helicopters, along with medical teams, have been deployed towards the affected areas, while private helicopter companies have also been asked to keep aircraft on standby.
Authorities have urged residents in downstream and other high-risk areas to move to safer locations.
