Catastrophe in Northern Nepal: Dams Breach, 55 Dead and Over 350 Missing as Emergency Airlifts Begin

KATHMANDU — A catastrophic flash flood tore through northern Nepal, leaving a trail of widespread destruction, breaching local dams, and triggering emergency high alerts across multiple downstream districts.

The disaster struck the Bhote Koshi River basin in the mountainous Rasuwa district, catching residents, travelers, and critical infrastructure completely off guard. Authorities suspect the catastrophe may have been triggered by a high-altitude glacial lake outburst, sending a towering wall of water and debris crashing down narrow mountain valleys.

The floodwaters have severely crippled regional connectivity, washing away key bridges, sections of vital trade routes, and multiple hydroelectric projects along the river system. Settlements such as Timure and Syabrubesi bore the brunt of the deluge, rendering access extremely difficult for initial response teams.

Addressing Parliament, Nepal’s Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal expressed grave concern over missing state employees and security personnel. Dozens of officers from the Nepal Police and the Armed Police Force stationed at border outposts remain completely out of contact.

According to data compiled by the Nepal Tourism Board, at least 384 travelers—comprising 291 foreign nationals and 93 domestic tourists—are currently listed as missing or unreachable in the disaster zones. The initial registry includes 105 Indian citizens, among them a group of at least 50 pilgrims from Tamil Nadu who were trapped as landslides and communication blackouts isolated the region.

The Government of Nepal has mobilized the national army and specialized medical teams for intensive search and rescue operations. Aerial operations have faced intense hurdles due to treacherous weather, prompting immediate cross-border support. The Indian Air Force has deployed aircraft carrying emergency relief materials to aid local authorities, while regional civil protection agencies continue aerial reconnaissance and evacuation missions.

Downstream communities along the Trishuli River remain on high alert, with disaster management agencies urging residents to stay away from riverbanks. While search-and-rescue teams continue combing accessible pockets, officials caution that casualty figures remain preliminary and are expected to evolve as communication lines are gradually restored.

For assistance and updates regarding Indian citizens stranded in the disaster zones, the Indian Embassy in Nepal has established emergency helplines at +977 985 131 6807 and +977 970 910 7500.