Bhotekoshi flood raises concerns about tourism prospect
Summary
The Bhotekoshi River flash flood has damaged tourism infrastructure in Rasuwa and nearby districts, raising concerns about the upcoming peak season and foreign booking cancellations. Tourism officials say major destinations across Nepal remain safe and open, and are urging international publicity to restore confidence.
Key Points
- The August 26 Bhotekoshi flash flood caused major loss of life and damaged roads, hotels and other tourism infrastructure in Rasuwa, Nuwakot and Dhading.
- Tourism officials say destinations such as Lumbini, Pokhara, Chitwan, Sagarmatha and Annapurna remain open and safe for international travellers.
- About 582 foreign nationals were still missing and around 302 had been rescued as of Wednesday, according to the Department of Tourism.
- Preliminary estimates put tourism-sector losses at around Rs. 50 billion, with many hotel, restaurant and vehicle businesses damaged.
