4 killed after flash flood sweeps through Nepal districts near Tibet border

A flash flood in Nepal on Wednesday claimed eight lives and caused extensive damage, officials reported. The deluge swept through the Himalayan country, destroying roads, bridges, and power infrastructure in areas near Tibet. Tibet's Xinhua news agency confirmed the disaster had claimed lives in the Gyirong region, with casualties still unaccounted for.

The swollen Bhote Koshi river proved too treacherous for rescue helicopters to operate in Nepal's affected regions of Syapru Besi and Timure, located in Rasuwa district. District administrator Narendra Pariyar warned of potential heavy casualties or property loss, urging residents to seek higher ground. Witnesses recounted a sudden, thunderous sound reminiscent of a volcanic eruption, prompting panic and a rush to safety.

Rescue efforts faced logistical challenges as helicopters could not land in the inundated areas until the waters receded. Army spokesperson Raja Ram Basnet confirmed this limitation. The flood's origin remains unclear, though a similar incident on the same river last year was linked to the collapse of a glacier lake.

China's Gyirong port, near Nepal's border, was reportedly affected by the mudslide, cutting off transportation routes and disrupting power supplies. President Xi Jinping called for comprehensive search operations and enhanced monitoring systems to prevent future disasters. Nepal's energy ministry reported that 430 MW of electricity, approximately 12% of the nation's hydropower capacity, was affected by the flood.

Prime Minister Balendra Shah directed police and military to assist in rescue and relief operations, urging people living in lower-lying areas to relocate to safer zones. Authorities advised those along the river to exercise caution and remain vigilant. The Bhote Koshi river, originating in Tibet, eventually merges with Nepal's Trishuli river, which flows into India as the Gandak river.

Last year's Bhote Koshi flood resulted in nine fatalities and 24 missing persons, washed away the Friendship Bridge linking Nepal and China, and disrupted trade and transportation for months.