Hundreds missing, billions in goods feared lost in Bhotekoshi flood
Summary
A devastating flood in Rasuwa has left hundreds of traders, drivers and customs workers missing, while billions of rupees in containers and goods are feared lost. The Bhotekoshi flood has also stranded about 170 containers in Kerung and disrupted Nepal’s northern trade routes.
Key Points
- Hundreds of traders, container drivers and customs-related workers remain unaccounted for six days after the Bhotekoshi flood hit Nepal’s northern trade hub in Rasuwa.
- Traders and customs officials say the destruction of the customs yard and surrounding areas has made it impossible to estimate the value of goods and containers lost, though losses are believed to run into billions of rupees.
- The Nepal Trans Himalaya Border Commerce Association says 234 people from Sindhupalchok remain missing, and the Sindhupalchok Chamber of Commerce and Industry has formed a subcommittee to assess losses.
- About 170 containers carrying goods for Nepal are stranded in Kerung, forcing traders to consider rerouting shipments through Tatopani or Korala.
