SMS alerts helped avert loss of life in Budhi Gandaki floods, says disaster management chief
Summary
A flash flood in the Budhi Gandaki river swept away bridges and damaged settlements and hydropower infrastructure in Gorkha district, but timely SMS alerts helped residents move to higher ground and avoid casualties so far. Rescue teams, the army and government agencies have been mobilised as officials assess the damage and investigate the flood’s cause.
Key Points
- A flash flood in the Budhi Gandaki river damaged bridges, settlements and hydropower infrastructure in Gorkha district.
- Officials said SMS warnings sent shortly after the first report helped people move to higher ground, with no casualties reported so far.
- Search and rescue operations are under way, with the army helicopter rescuing 47 people and government agencies mobilised.
- Authorities are investigating whether the flood was triggered by an avalanche or a landslide that blocked the river upstream.
