Kathmandu: A landslide in Nepal’s Gorkha district blocked the flow of the Budhi Gandaki River, triggering a sudden flash flood that caused widespread damage and left five people missing. Search and rescue operations are underway.
The flooding affected several areas of Chumnubri Rural Municipality. The missing persons, comprising two women and three men, were staying in temporary shelters used by herders.
Four Nepal Army helicopters have been deployed for rescue operations, while 47 people have been rescued and moved to safety. Twelve employees of the Budhi Gandaki Hydropower Project have also been evacuated.
The floodwaters swept away houses, two suspension bridges and a steel bridge, disrupting connectivity between several areas.
According to the Independent Power Producers’ Association, Nepal (IPPAN), four hydropower projects in the river basin were damaged, affecting projects with a combined capacity of 412.09 MW, including the 341 MW Budhi Gandaki project.
Authorities have warned residents living downstream about the risk of further flooding. Emergency response teams from six districts, including Gorkha and Dhading, have been mobilised.
Relief supplies are being transported by road and helicopter as rescue operations and damage assessments continue.
