A massive flash flood originating from the Tibetan side of the border struck Nepal's Rasuwa district on Wednesday, destroying infrastructure, vehicles, and settlements in Timure and Syapru Besi. While the full extent of the damage remains under assessment, authorities have confirmed that several police facilities were damaged and nine Armed Police Force personnel are missing. The surge also impacted hydropower projects and disrupted electricity supplies across the region.
Prime Minister Balendra Shah has convened an emergency meeting to coordinate rescue operations, deploying the Nepal Army, Armed Police Force, and Nepal Police to the affected areas. Two Army helicopters are currently assisting in search and rescue efforts. Officials have issued urgent warnings for residents living along the Bhote Koshi and Trishuli river systems to evacuate to higher ground as the floodwaters move downstream toward Nuwakot, Dhading, Gorkha, and Chitwan.
The cause of the sudden surge remains under investigation, with officials noting that the flooding does not appear to be linked to local rainfall. While authorities are examining the possibility of a glacial lake outburst, satellite imagery suggests significant precipitation occurred on the Tibetan side of the border. In response, neighboring Indian states and the Chinese Embassy have activated emergency monitoring and response protocols.
