Bhote Koshi disaster enters its 11th day: Timeline of Nepal’s deadliest flood in decades
Summary
A glacier and rock collapse near Langtang Lirung triggered Nepal’s deadliest flood in decades, devastating Rasuwa, Nuwakot, Dhading, Gorkha and Chitwan while killing well over 1,340 people and severing key roads, bridges and hydropower sites. Nepal and foreign partners launched large-scale rescue and relief efforts as the government faced criticism over its initial response.
Key Points
- A glacier and rock collapse near Langtang Lirung on August 26 triggered a catastrophic flood in the Bhote Koshi basin that spread through multiple districts and killed well over 1,340 people.
- The flood destroyed the Rasuwagadhi border crossing, the Miteri Bridge, river gauge stations and several hydropower projects, while trapping hundreds of workers in tunnels.
- Prime Minister Balendra “Balen” Shah and the Cabinet declared disaster zones, opened the Relief Fund and coordinated rescue efforts, while India, China, the UN, the World Bank and others sent aid.
- The government’s initial refusal to accept foreign rescue teams drew criticism before Nepal later reversed course and allowed limited international specialists to assist.
