Kathmandu, 8 Jul: A flood from the Chinese side has swept away the Nepal–China Miteri Bridge located in Rasuwa.
The bridge was washed away by a flood in the Bhotekoshi River, severing direct contact between Nepal and China. The flood also caused damage to the dry port area, where vehicles awaiting customs clearance were swept away, according to the Rasuwa District Police Office.
According to Rasuwa’s Assistant Chief District Officer, Dhruva Prasad Adhikari, the flood hit suddenly around 3 a.m. today. So far, no human casualties have been officially confirmed. “However, as some vehicles at the customs area were swept away, there is suspicion that a few drivers and helpers might have been carried away too. But it hasn’t been confirmed yet,” he said.
“According to preliminary information, the flood is believed to have swept away around 6 to 7 electric vehicles (EVs). We’ve also received reports that some people are trapped in the area. Rescue teams have been deployed,” he said.
He added that the flood has also caused damage to the dam of the Rasuwagadhi Hydropower Project.
The District Administration Office has issued a warning urging residents in lower-lying areas to remain alert due to the sudden flood. Assistant Chief District Officer Dhruva Prasad Adhikari stated that special caution has been advised for residents of the Mailung and Betrawati areas.
He also mentioned that police personnel from the Mailung police post have moved to a safer location due to the risk.
Residents along the Trishuli River urged to remain alert
The District Administration Office of Dhading has urged residents living along the banks of the Trishuli River to exercise caution. Considering the possibility of increased water flow in the Trishuli River due to continuous rainfall, the office has requested people in the area to remain highly vigilant.
In a public notice, the administration reported heavy rainfall in the upper regions of the Trishuli River basin, including Nuwakot and Rasuwa. The rainfall has also caused damage to roads and bridges, increasing the risk of flooding on both sides of the river.
The administration has advised residents living near the riverbanks to avoid going close to the river unless necessary, to keep children and livestock in safe places, and to immediately move to safer locations if they are in potential risk areas.
