Nepal is grappling with devastating floods and landslides triggered by heavy rains, with the death toll climbing to over 170 people. According to officials from Nepal’s Home Ministry, at least 42 people remain missing as of Sunday, as search and rescue operations continue. The extreme weather has wreaked havoc across large parts of eastern and central Nepal, causing widespread damage and displacing thousands of residents.
Severe Flooding and Landslides Across Nepal
Since Friday, torrential rains have inundated vast swathes of Nepal, with flash floods reported in numerous regions. According to Nepal Police, at least 170 people have lost their lives as a result of the flooding and landslides, with many regions still experiencing significant disruptions.
The Ministry of Home Affairs has confirmed that an additional 111 people have sustained injuries in these flood-related incidents. Rishiram Pokharel, the ministry’s spokesperson, reported that all of the country’s security forces, including the Nepal Army, Nepal Police, and the Armed Police Force, have been mobilized to assist with search and rescue efforts.
As part of these efforts, the Nepal Army has airlifted 162 individuals from flood-affected areas, while more than 4,000 people have been rescued from inundated regions by the combined efforts of security forces. Pokharel emphasized that all necessary relief materials, including food grains, are being distributed to those affected.
Severe Disruptions to Transportation and Infrastructure
The floods and landslides have also caused massive damage to infrastructure throughout the country. According to the Ministry of Home Affairs, 322 houses and 16 bridges have been destroyed by the extreme weather. Several national highways have been blocked by landslides, leaving hundreds of passengers stranded on various roads across Nepal.
Efforts are currently underway to clear the obstructions, and Tribhuvan Highway, the main route connecting Kathmandu to other districts, has seen transport partially restored. However, many areas remain isolated, and the full extent of the damage is still being assessed.
Eyewitnesses have described the floods as unprecedented in recent memory. Many locals report that they have not seen flooding on such a scale in over 40-45 years. Arun Bhakta Shrestha, a climate and environmental expert from the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD), said, “I’ve never seen flooding on this scale in Kathmandu.”
Bagmati River Surpasses Danger Levels
Much of the capital city, Kathmandu, is also affected, with the Bagmati River flowing above danger levels following the incessant rainfall. ICIMOD published a report attributing the extreme rainfall to a low-pressure system in the Bay of Bengal combined with an unusually northerly position of the monsoon trough, which led to exceptionally intense rain across the region on Friday and Saturday.
Climate Change and Poor Urban Planning Contribute to Devastation
Climate scientists have pointed out that while climate change is altering the timing and intensity of rainfall across Asia, the increasing impact of floods can also be attributed to unplanned construction and the development of built environments in flood-prone areas. These developments often reduce natural water retention and drainage areas, leading to more severe flooding in cities and rural areas alike.
In addition to this, the floods and landslides have displaced hundreds of families and swept away homes, leaving communities struggling to survive in the aftermath. Thousands of passengers are stranded in various locations due to the road disruptions, with authorities working tirelessly to restore mobility and deliver aid.
Tragic Incidents and Lives Lost
Several tragic incidents have been reported as a result of the landslides. On Saturday, at least 19 people lost their lives when a bus was buried in a landslide in Dhading district, which borders Kathmandu. In another heartbreaking incident, six football players were killed when a landslide struck a training center operated by the All Nepal Football Association in Makwanpur. Additionally, five people were killed when a house collapsed under the pressure of a landslide in Bhaktapur city.
With dozens still missing, rescue operations are racing against time, especially in the most affected districts where access remains difficult due to ongoing landslides and road blockages. Authorities continue to call for more support, and social workers have stepped in to help. In the Balkhu area on the outskirts of Kathmandu, meals were distributed to 400 people affected by the flooding, a testament to the efforts made by both government agencies and the local community.
Forecast of Continued Rainfall, but Some Relief in Sight
Despite forecasts indicating that rain is expected to continue until Tuesday, there are signs that conditions may begin to ease. Authorities remain on high alert, prepared for further rescue efforts if necessary, while continuing to provide relief to the thousands displaced by the catastrophic floods.
Nepal has endured a tragic week, with the floods and landslides leaving a lasting impact on the country’s landscape and its people. While rescue and recovery operations continue, the nation faces a challenging road to rebuilding in the weeks and months ahead.