Gorkha: A devastating flash flood in Nepal’s Budhi Gandaki River has swept away dozens of houses, destroyed several bridges and damaged hydropower infrastructure in Gorkha district, leaving five people missing and forcing 47 people to evacuate to safety.

The flood struck Chumnubri and Dharche rural municipalities early Sunday after a landslide reportedly obstructed the river’s flow, triggering a sudden surge of water, mud, rocks and debris through riverside settlements. The disaster disrupted road connectivity and damaged critical infrastructure, prompting emergency rescue operations and evacuation alerts across downstream areas.

The five missing people reportedly include two women and three men who were staying at a temporary shepherd settlement in the Ungilung area of Chumchet. Search operations are continuing, while authorities assess the full extent of the destruction. No deaths had been confirmed in the initial reports.

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Landslide Suspected to Have Triggered Flood

Preliminary assessments suggest that a landslide between Lokpa and Chumling in Chumnubri Rural Municipality blocked the river system, creating a temporary natural barrier. The sudden release of accumulated water is believed to have triggered the destructive flood.

The river rose sharply, carrying large quantities of mud, boulders and debris downstream. The sudden surge caught residents off guard, inundating settlements and sweeping away structures along the riverbanks.

Authorities are investigating the exact sequence of events and have warned that further fluctuations in river levels could endanger vulnerable communities.

Houses, Bridges and Hydropower Project Damaged

The flood caused extensive damage in several locations, including Jagat Bagar, Salleri and Ghattikhola. Preliminary estimates suggest that around 35 to 40 houses were swept away, although the final damage assessment is still underway.

Several bridges, including suspension footbridges and motorable bridges, were washed away, disrupting movement between remote villages. The destruction of key crossings has complicated access to affected settlements and raised concerns about the delivery of relief supplies.

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A flash flood triggered by a breached landside dam along central Nepal’s Buddhist Gandaki River has swept away roughly 3 dozen homes, four bridges, and a hydropower construction site. As mass evacuations continue, the Nepali army has rescued 49 stranded residence, with five people still reported missing a mid widespread damage to power and communication lines.

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The under-construction 341-megawatt Budhi Gandaki hydropower project also suffered damage. Floodwaters swept away a construction camp and equipment at the Salleri site. Electricity poles and telecommunications infrastructure were also reportedly damaged, affecting essential services in the region.

Army Leads Rescue and Evacuation Operations

The Nepal Army, Nepal Police and Armed Police Force have mobilised personnel for rescue, evacuation and damage assessment. Army helicopters have been deployed to reach remote and vulnerable locations where ground access remains difficult.

According to the latest reported update, 47 people were evacuated to safer locations using Nepal Army helicopters. Twelve employees of Times Energy Pvt. Ltd. were also relocated to safety.

Security personnel are assisting residents in moving away from high-risk areas. Authorities have urged people living near riverbanks to move to higher ground, avoid damaged bridges and remain alert to official warnings.

Downstream Areas Put on Alert

Flood warnings have been issued for communities along the Budhi Gandaki and Trishuli river systems. Residents in Gorkha, Dhading, Tanahun, Chitwan and East and West Nawalparasi districts have been advised to remain vigilant.

Officials are monitoring river levels and assessing the possibility of further flooding. Residents have been cautioned against returning to vulnerable locations until conditions are declared safe.

Nepal Faces Recurring Flood and Landslide Risks

The latest disaster has once again highlighted Nepal’s vulnerability to flash floods and landslides in its mountainous terrain. Landslides can temporarily block rivers and tributaries, allowing water to accumulate before a sudden breach unleashes a powerful torrent downstream.

With five people still missing, rescue operations continuing and damage assessments underway, authorities are focusing on locating the missing, evacuating residents from vulnerable settlements and preventing further casualties.

The immediate priority remains the safety of communities along the river, as emergency teams continue operations in the flood-hit areas.