Nepal is facing severe flooding and landslides that have claimed the lives of at least 148 people, leaving many injured and missing. The devastating events unfolded after two days of continuous heavy rainfall across the Himalayan nation. Here’s an overview of the disaster and its impact.
Death Toll and Casualties
- Deaths: At least 148 confirmed dead
- Injuries: More than 100 injured
- Missing: Over 50 people still unaccounted for
- Rescue Operations: Around 3,600 people have been rescued so far
The situation has worsened in many areas, particularly around Nepal’s capital, Kathmandu, where heavy rainfall has submerged homes and streets. The valley surrounding Kathmandu has been one of the most affected regions.
Residents’ Struggle to Escape Rising Waters
As the floodwaters rose, many residents had to make desperate attempts to save themselves. Some were forced to “jump from one roof to another” to escape the fast-rising waters. Thousands of homes have been flooded, and rescue teams are still working tirelessly to save stranded individuals using helicopters and inflatable rafts.
Nepal Floods: Landslides Causing Further Destruction
Alongside the flooding, landslides have become another significant threat. Some of the major impacts include:
- Prithvi Highway Disaster: At least 35 bodies have been found from vehicles buried under landslides on Prithvi Highway, a critical road that connects Kathmandu with the rest of Nepal.
- Road Blockages: Many major roads and motorways connecting Kathmandu with other parts of the country are blocked due to landslides, making it difficult to move aid and rescue teams.
Families Devastated by Collapsed Homes
In the city of Bhaktapur, just east of Kathmandu, five people, including a pregnant woman and a four-year-old child, died when their house collapsed due to a landslide. Similar tragedies are happening across the country:
- Dhading Bus Tragedy: Two bodies were recovered from a bus buried by a landslide in Dhading, located west of Kathmandu. A total of 12 people, including the driver, were aboard the bus at the time.
- Football Players Lost in Makwanpur: Six football players tragically lost their lives at a training center operated by the All Nepal Football Association after a landslide struck the facility in Makwanpur, southwest of Kathmandu.
Eyewitness Accounts of the Disaster
The flooding has created dramatic scenes across Nepal. In one incident, four people were swept away by the Nakkhu River in southern Kathmandu. Witnesses described their helplessness as they watched the victims struggle.
One eyewitness, Jitendra Bhandari, shared the heart-wrenching moment, saying, “For hours, they kept on pleading for help. We could do nothing.”
Personal Stories of Loss and Survival
The floods have also led to significant personal losses. For example, Hari Om Malla lost his truck when it was submerged in floodwaters in Kathmandu. He described the frightening moment when water began to flood the cabin:
- “We jumped out, swam, and got away from it—but my purse, bag, and mobile have been swept away by the river. I have nothing now. We stayed the whole night in the cold.”
Another resident, Bishnu Maya Shretha, explained how the flooding this season was far worse than in previous years. She recalled her terrifying escape:
- “We had to cut the roof and get out.
Ongoing Rescue Efforts for Nepal Floods and Weather Forecast
Despite the ongoing rescue efforts, heavy rains are forecasted to continue until Tuesday. However, there have been signs of some easing of the weather on Sunday, allowing a few residents to return to their mud-covered homes. Unfortunately, many areas remain isolated, with crucial roads still blocked by debris.
References:
- BBC News – Nepal Floods: Eyewitness Accounts
- State Media Reports – Landslides and Floods in Nepal
- Police Reports – Rescue and Death Toll Statistics
The people of Nepal are struggling to recover from the worst floods and landslides seen in recent years. The government, along with international aid agencies, continues to provide assistance, but the road to recovery remains long and difficult.