Budhigandaki flood sweeps away 35 houses, six bridges; 5 missing
Summary
A sudden flash flood in the Budhigandaki River in northern Gorkha swept away six bridges and around 35 houses, leaving five people missing and damaging settlements and hydropower sites. Rescue teams, including the Nepali Army, Nepal Police and Armed Police Force, are searching the area as downstream districts remain on alert for rising water levels.
Key Points
- A flash flood in the Budhigandaki River in northern Gorkha destroyed six bridges, washed away around 35 houses and left five people missing.
- The flood was triggered after a landslide near Siringe Himal blocked a stream and later burst, sending water and debris into the river.
- Rescue operations are underway with support from the Nepali Army, Nepal Police, Armed Police Force and four army helicopters, while 82 people including nine foreigners were rescued.
- Several hydropower projects under construction along the Budhigandaki River were damaged, and Chitwan authorities warned residents along the Trishuli and Narayani rivers about possible downstream flooding.
