At least 63 people are missing in Nepal after a landslide triggered by heavy monsoon rains swept two buses off a highway and plunged them into the Trishuli River in the Chitwan district. The two passenger buses were carrying more than 50 people when they were caught in the landslide, which occurred early Friday. Continuous rain and further landslides have significantly hampered rescue efforts.
Despite the challenging conditions, three survivors managed to swim to safety. However, rescuers have yet to locate any trace of the buses or the remaining passengers. The affected highway is a crucial route that connects the capital of Nepal to its southern regions, adding to the severity of the incident’s impact. The continuous rain and additional landslides have also blocked access to the area, complicating rescue operations further. Additional rescuers and security forces have been dispatched to assist in the search and rescue efforts.
Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal has directed all government agencies to prioritize the search and rescue mission. This directive underscores the urgency and gravity of the situation as efforts continue to locate the missing individuals. The monsoon season in Nepal has been particularly harsh this year, causing significant damage and disruption. At least 62 people have been killed and 90 others injured in rain-related incidents since the onset of the monsoon season.
Landslides and floods, triggered by torrential monsoon rains, have claimed the lives of at least 91 people in Nepal since mid-June. These natural disasters have caused widespread devastation, impacting infrastructure, homes, and communities. The heavy rains have not only caused landslides but have also swollen rivers, making conditions even more hazardous.
The disaster has brought to light the vulnerabilities of Nepal’s infrastructure and the challenges faced during the monsoon season. The incident has also highlighted the need for improved disaster preparedness and response mechanisms to mitigate the impacts of such natural calamities in the future.
As rescue operations continue, the situation remains dire. The authorities are working tirelessly to locate the missing and provide assistance to the affected communities. The international community has also been keeping a close watch on the developments, with potential aid and support expected to assist in the recovery efforts.
The heavy rains and subsequent landslides are a stark reminder of the destructive power of nature and the importance of preparedness in the face of such challenges. The tragedy in Chitwan district is a poignant example of how natural disasters can cause significant human suffering and underscore the need for resilient infrastructure and effective emergency response systems.
The ongoing monsoon season is expected to bring more rain, posing continued risks of landslides and flooding. Authorities and residents alike are on high alert, with efforts focused on minimizing further casualties and damage. The government’s swift response and the deployment of additional rescue personnel highlight the seriousness with which this disaster is being treated.
The landslide in Nepal that swept two buses into the Trishuli River, leaving at least 63 people missing, is a tragic reminder of the devastating impact of natural disasters. The continuous heavy rains and resulting landslides have complicated rescue efforts, with authorities striving to locate the missing and provide relief to affected communities. The incident underscores the need for improved disaster preparedness and response strategies to better manage such crises in the future.
