The overflowing of the Budhi Gandaki River in the Gorkha region of central Nepal has caused major damage to residential areas. As floodwaters swept away houses and suspension bridges, a hydroelectric project under construction in the area was also damaged.
The Nepalese army announced that 95 people, including 9 foreigners, have been rescued. Authorities reported that 5 people are still missing. Four helicopters have been deployed to the region for search and rescue operations.
According to the Nepal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority, more than 200 houses were damaged in the flood, and over 650 people were affected. While many families were forced to abandon their homes, land access to some settlements has been completely cut off.
Officials announced that the flood swept away approximately 12 houses and numerous suspension bridges, and that equipment belonging to the hydroelectric construction site was also carried away by the waters. It was reported that the water level in the river rose from approximately 2 meters to 8.5 meters within a few hours.
The disaster occurred during a period when preparations were underway for the first day of Dashain, one of the most important holidays of the year in Nepal. While the exact cause of the flood has not yet been announced, some experts believe that a landslide may have temporarily blocked the river or one of its tributaries, and the accumulated water may have subsequently caused the surge.
Due to the challenging geographical conditions in the Himalayas, Nepal frequently faces the risk of earthquakes, landslides, and floods. Experts point out that climate change is accelerating the melting of glaciers, increasing the risk of similar disasters in the region.
News Source: 12punto
