Bhotekoshi River Water Level Rises Again, New Flood Threat Looms Over Nepal

Kathmandu: The havoc of floods in Nepal is not over yet. People in Rasuwa, Nuwakot and Dhading have lost their sleep due to the rise in the water level of Bhotekoshi river once again. Meanwhile, India has sent the fourth consignment of help and has intensified the rescue.

Has the Bhotekoshi River been flooded again?

According to DM Narendra Pariyar of Rasuwa, the water suddenly increased very rapidly in Bhotekoshi at around 3 pm on Saturday night. This created panic among the people living on the banks. Nepal's Disaster Management Authority immediately issued an alert. However, it is a matter of relief that now the flow is gradually decreasing. The flood forecasting department has said that at present there is no danger of major flood, but the administration is keeping an eye on it.

How are 600 people trapped in the tunnel?

The biggest challenge is to rescue about 600 people trapped in a tunnel in Rasuwa. These people have been trapped inside since the flood of 26th August. The operation is getting delayed due to the rescue team not having enough machines, experts and employees. It is also becoming difficult to deliver oxygen and food to the people trapped inside the tunnel, due to which the worries of the families have increased.

How much devastation was caused by the flood of 26th August?

The flood that occurred on 26th August on the Nepal-Tibet border had caused huge devastation. According to Nepal Police data, 675 people have died so far and more than 2400 people are missing. Many roads, bridges, houses and hydropower projects have been washed away. Contact with many villages is still broken and people are searching for their loved ones in the debris.

How many Indians are still missing?

A large number of Indian citizens are also trapped in this disaster. More than 275 Indians are still reported missing, while 108 people have been rescued safely. The Ministry of External Affairs said that in the last two days, 598 Indians have reached Nepal via China. About 900 Indians are currently in China and all are safe.

What has India sent for help?

India has sent 11 tonnes of relief material by C-130 military aircraft as the fourth consignment on Saturday night. This includes blankets, sleeping bags, tarpaulins, plastic sheets and hygiene kits. Along with this, a technical team with necessary equipment has been sent to find the people trapped in the tunnel and forensic experts have also been sent for DNA testing.

Is there still a danger of major flood?

According to the administration, the water level of Bhotekoshi is now decreasing, so there is no need of major danger. Nevertheless, an appeal has been made to the people living on the river banks to remain alert and immediately move to safe places if the danger increases.