Swept Away by Flash Flood, Nepal Worker Finds Lifeline in Mango Tree

Kathamandu: The flash flood in Nepal has destroyed everything. So far 157 people have died and hundreds are missing. Amidst this devastation, the story of two people has surprised everyone. A mango tree saved the life of a 24-year-old laborer, while on the other hand, an 11-year-old girl defeated death and came back.

How did Bibek Kumal get hit by the flood?

24-year-old Bibek Kumal was digging a pit for a toilet outside a new house in Bidur area on Wednesday. This area is downstream from Rasuwa, which was most devastated in the floods. Bibek said, "While working, suddenly there was a loud hissing sound. Four of my colleagues standing outside shouted and said, "Get out quickly, run." By the time Bibek came out of the pit, his companions had fled.

How did the mango tree save his life?

Bibek ran to save his life, but within a few seconds a wave of water, mud and big stones came towards him. He started flowing with the debris. “I drifted for a long distance, then got stuck in a mango tree. If the tree had not been there, I would not have been alive today,” Bibek said. Later, the police team evacuated him from there.

How much injury did Bibek suffer?

Due to the strong current and hitting a big stone, Bibek suffered serious injury to his right leg. He is undergoing treatment at the National Trauma Center in Kathmandu. The entire house near which he was working was washed away by the flood. Luckily, Bibek's own house is saved.

How did 11-year-old Rihana survive?

The second story is of 11 year old Rihana Lamichhane. Due to the flood her school was closed and she was sent home. While returning home, she was crossing the river when suddenly flood water came. Rihanna's chest and leg were injured, but her life was saved. An acquaintance called her mother Rita and informed her. The mother immediately went out to search for her daughter and cried after seeing her safe. Rihanna said, "I got saved, but my friends have no idea."

How much devastation has happened so far?

The water coming from Tibet has caused devastation in 7 districts including Rasuwa, Nuwakot, Dhading. Many villages, 19 bridges and hydroelectric projects have been washed away. More than 114 people have been rescued so far and the rescue operation is still going on.