Rhino Cruise Stuck on Narayani Bridge Raises Questions on Disaster Preparedness

Summary

A flood in the Narayani River swept the Rhino Cruise into a pillar of the Narayani Bridge, forcing a temporary closure of traffic and raising questions about disaster preparedness. Authorities are using cranes to remove the vessel while concerns grow over coordination, safety planning, and responsibility for preventing damage to the bridge.

Key Points
  • The Rhino Cruise was swept by floodwaters and lodged against a pillar of the Narayani Bridge, prompting a temporary traffic closure.
  • Officials from Chitwan and Nawalpur were mobilized, but no clear removal plan was immediately available in the early hours.
  • The Department of Roads admitted the cruise should have been kept in a safer place before the flood.
  • Crews are now using cranes to remove the vessel, with the option of cutting it into pieces if needed.
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