Kathmandu— Catastrophic flash floods surged through the Bhotekoshi River in Rasuwa district, Nepal, early Wednesday morning, causing widespread destruction across multiple districts including Nuwakot, Dhading, Gorkha, and Chitwan. The disaster, believed to be triggered by an earthquake, heavy rainfall, and a glacial lake outburst originating in Tibet, China, has swept away settlements, businesses, government offices, vehicles, and critical infrastructure like roads, bridges, and hydropower projects. At least 19 bridges have been damaged and over 40 kilometers of roadway disrupted, hindering access to affected areas.

Extent of the Damage

The floods caused particularly severe damage in Timure market, where over 60 houses were washed away in Trishuli bazaar, Nuwakot. The Rasuwagadhi customs office and numerous businesses were also destroyed, along with hundreds of vehicles awaiting clearance. Major infrastructure projects, including the Chimile hydropower plant and a 220kv substation, sustained damage, further complicating rescue efforts. Authorities are still assessing the full extent of the devastation but report significant disruption to transportation networks.

Government Response

Prime Minister Balendra Shah immediately instructed relevant agencies to launch coordinated rescue and relief operations following news of the tragedy. He chaired a meeting of the National Council for Disaster Risk Reduction and Management to assess the situation, losses incurred, and ongoing efforts. A subsequent Cabinet meeting expressed deep sorrow over the loss of life and property and authorized free medical treatment for those injured. The Home and Defence Ministries have mobilized resources, including Nepali Army helicopters and private sector support, to rescue victims and relocate displaced populations.

Relief and Reconstruction Efforts

The Ministry of Infrastructure Development has been tasked with rebuilding damaged roads and restoring access to drinking water in affected areas. Financial assistance will be provided to families who have lost loved ones, coordinated by the Finance Minister. The government has declared the flood-affected local levels as disaster zones for three months, enabling expedited aid delivery. The Health Ministry activated its Health Emergency Operations Centre (HEOC) to coordinate emergency medical services and ensure hospitals in Kathmandu are prepared to receive patients.

Call for Collective Support

While acknowledging the government’s swift response, observers emphasize the need for a unified effort involving all stakeholders. The private sector, social organizations, humanitarian groups, and media outlets are urged to support government initiatives and provide assistance to victims. Media outlets were also asked to disseminate accurate information about the disaster's impact and cautioned against exaggerating losses on social media.

The full extent of the damage is still being assessed as rescue and relief operations continue across the affected districts, with a focus on providing immediate aid and beginning long-term reconstruction efforts.

(With inputs from RN)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.