Kathmandu— A devastating flash flood in the Bhotekoshi river on August 26 has left deep sorrow and fear in its wake, particularly affecting the districts of Rasuwa, Nuwakot, and Dhading. The tragedy claimed lives, including those of Shiva Giri's cousin and friends, who were swept away moments after the flood struck a hydropower project site.

Survivors' Accounts

Shiva Giri, a technical officer at Mailung Hydropower in Rasuwa, managed to escape from the project office but tragically lost his cousin and friends. He recounted how he fled alongside seven friends for about 12 hours before being airlifted to Kathmandu by the Nepali Army. "Even though there was early warning, this kind of risk was not anticipated," Giri said.

Underestimated Risk

Chippu Dorje Tamang, an employee at Trishuli-3 'A' Hydropower Project in Rasuwa, noted that despite warnings about possible floods, some people did not take the potential risk seriously. "People underestimated it, thinking the flood wouldn't reach this extent," he said. He also mentioned that news of the 11-story customs building collapsing didn’t reach everyone on time.

Ongoing Uncertainty

For survivors like Megh Bahadur Gurung's wife, Jayanti, there is still hope and uncertainty about their loved ones. She anxiously waits at hospitals and search sites for news of her husband, who has gone missing after the flood.

(With inputs from RN)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.