Kathmandu July 12 2024 : A devastating landslide early this morning along the Madan-Ashrit Highway in Nepal has resulted in two buses being swept into the Trishuli River, leaving 63 people missing. The incident occurred around 3:30 am amidst heavy rainfall in the region, impacting the Kathmandu-bound Angel bus and Ganpati Deluxe.
Chief District Officer of Chitwan, Indradev Yadav, confirmed the tragic event, stating, “Both buses, carrying a total of 63 passengers including drivers, were swept away by the landslide.” Efforts are underway to locate and rescue those missing, hindered by continuous rain which complicates search operations.
The landslide follows a series of tragic incidents in Nepal due to monsoon-related disasters. In Pokhara, Kaski district, seven members of a family and three others lost their lives in landslides. Additionally, one person was reported dead in Madi Rural Municipality of the same district.
Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal has instructed government agencies to prioritize search and rescue operations. Rescue teams, including divers, have been deployed to trace the buses submerged in the Trishuli River. The Prime Minister emphasized the urgency of the situation as Nepal faces heightened risks of floods, mudslides, and landslides during the monsoon season.
In response to the disaster, flights between Kathmandu and Bharatpur have been canceled, affecting travel plans amid ongoing rescue efforts.
The situation remains critical as authorities continue rescue operations and assess the full extent of the damage caused by the landslides.
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