Kathmandu: At least 51 people have been killed and several others injured as relentless rainfall unleashed deadly landslides and floods across eastern Nepal, local media reported on Sunday. The worst-hit region is Ilam district in Koshi Province, which alone accounted for 37 deaths, according to The Rising Nepal.
Other casualties were reported from Panchthar (6), Rautahat (3), Udayapur (2), and Khotang (1). One person remains missing in Ilam, while seven others have sustained injuries, said DSP Shailendra Thapa, Joint Spokesperson of the Armed Police Force (APF).
The overflowing Mai, Puwa, and Jog Mai rivers swept away bridges along the Mechi Highway and adjoining routes, leaving Ilam largely cut off. “Many victims were asleep when the landslides struck,” said Chief District Officer Sunita Nepal, adding that rescue teams from the Nepal Army, Police, and APF are facing challenges as many inner roads remain blocked.
Officials fear the toll could rise as search and rescue operations continue amid difficult terrain and weather conditions.
The Jogmai Hydropower Project also suffered heavy damage, leading to widespread power outages in the district. Restoration work could take several days, said Bijuli Prasad Yadav, head of the Nepal Electricity Authority’s Ilam office.
Meanwhile, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow over the disaster, describing the situation as “distressing.” In a post on X, he wrote, “We stand with the people and Government of Nepal in this difficult time. As a friendly neighbour and first responder, India remains committed to providing any assistance that may be required.”
The loss of lives and damage caused by heavy rains in Nepal is distressing. We stand with the people and Government of Nepal in this difficult time. As a friendly neighbour and first responder, India remains committed to providing any assistance that may be required.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 5, 2025
Rescue and relief efforts are currently underway across all affected districts, as authorities brace for more rain in the coming days.
