Authorities in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar have stepped up preparedness after a devastating flash flood in Nepal’s Rasuwa district killed at least eight people and caused widespread destruction near the Nepal-Tibet border on Wednesday. The sudden surge has raised concerns over rising water levels in rivers that flow downstream into India.
Flash Flood Devastates Nepal
The flash flood struck the Rasuwa district, particularly the areas around Timure and Syapru Besi. Floodwaters swept away settlements, vehicles, roads and bridges, while several infrastructure and hydropower projects were also damaged.
The flooding was linked to a sudden surge entering the Bhote Koshi River from the Tibetan side. The exact cause is still being investigated, with officials examining whether the event could have been triggered by an avalanche, sudden water release or another high-altitude phenomenon.
At least eight people have been confirmed dead, while hundreds of people remain unaccounted for. According to officials cited by NDTV, 384 travellers, including 291 foreign nationals, were reported missing from the affected area. At least 105 of those foreign nationals are Indian citizens.
Rivers Flowing Towards India Raise Concern
The disaster has triggered concern in northern India because the Bhote Koshi eventually feeds into the wider river system that enters India as the Gandak. Authorities are closely watching the Gandak and other rivers originating in Nepal for any sudden increase in water levels.
In Bihar, the state government has formed a high-level team to monitor the situation and coordinate preparations. Officials have particularly focused on districts located along the Gandak River and other vulnerable areas.
Bihar authorities have advised residents living close to the Gandak and in low-lying areas to remain alert, avoid approaching the river unnecessarily and follow instructions issued by local administrations. Officials have also urged people not to rely on rumours and to seek information only from official sources.
Uttar Pradesh Also On Alert
Authorities in Uttar Pradesh have increased monitoring in districts near the Nepal border, particularly areas that could be affected by rising water levels in the Gandak and Narayani river systems. The districts of Maharajganj and Kushinagar are among the areas where authorities are watching the situation closely.
The potential movement of floodwater downstream has prompted officials to prepare for a possible rise in river levels and flooding in vulnerable locations.
Rescue Operations Underway
Nepal has deployed the Army, Armed Police Force and Nepal Police to carry out search-and-rescue operations. Helicopters have also been sent to the affected region, although difficult conditions and high water levels have complicated rescue efforts.
Authorities in Nepal have simultaneously warned residents along the Bhote Koshi and Trishuli river systems to move to safer areas. The flood threat has extended downstream toward areas including Nuwakot, Dhading, Gorkha and Chitwan.
The full scale of the destruction and the final number of casualties remain unclear as rescue teams continue searching affected areas. Meanwhile, officials in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh are maintaining heightened vigilance as the floodwaters move downstream.
