Nepal on High Alert as Bhote Koshi River Surges; 600 Trapped in Tunnel, India Launches Rescue Support

Kathmandu: Nepal, still reeling from the devastating floods of recent days, is facing fresh concerns after a sudden rise in the water flow of the Bhote Koshi River triggered an alert in several districts.

The Rasuwa district administration reported a sharp surge in the river after 3 AM. However, officials said the flow has gradually started to recede and there is currently no threat of major flooding in riverside areas.

Authorities have nevertheless urged residents living along the riverbanks in Rasuwa, Nuwakot and Dhading to remain vigilant and move to safer locations if conditions worsen.

Rasuwa Chief District Officer Narendra Pariyar said the river’s flow increased suddenly in the early hours but has since been declining. Nepal’s National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority has also advised people in vulnerable areas to exercise caution.

The Flood Forecasting Division said there is presently no indication of large-scale flooding near the Bhote Koshi, while authorities continue to closely monitor the river.

600 People Reportedly Trapped Inside Tunnel

Amid the latest alert, the biggest challenge facing rescue teams is the reported presence of around 600 people trapped inside a tunnel in Rasuwa following the flooding.

A large-scale rescue operation has yet to begin, with officials citing shortages of personnel, technical experts and specialized equipment. Delays in government-level preparedness have further complicated the situation.

The condition of those trapped inside remains a major concern, while safely evacuating them has emerged as an urgent priority.

August 26 Flash Flood Leaves Massive Destruction

The latest developments come after a catastrophic flash flood near the Nepal-Tibet border on August 26 caused widespread destruction.

According to Nepal Police figures cited in reports, 675 people have died, while more than 2,400 remain missing. Poor weather conditions continue to hamper search-and-rescue operations.

Floodwaters have damaged roads, bridges, homes and settlements, while several hydropower projects have also been affected. In many areas, families continue to search for missing relatives.

More Than 275 Indians Reported Missing

Indian nationals have also been affected by the disaster. More than 275 Indians are reportedly missing, while 108 have been safely evacuated. Authorities have also reported that contact has been lost with 128 people of Indian origin.

The Ministry of External Affairs said 598 Indian citizens safely entered Nepal through China over the past two days, while around 900 Indians remain on the Chinese side and are reported to be safe.

India Steps Up Relief and Rescue Efforts

India has stepped up its assistance to Nepal, dispatching its fourth consignment of relief material amid the ongoing crisis.

A C-130 military aircraft carrying around 11 tonnes of relief supplies departed for Nepal on Saturday night. The mission includes a technical team equipped to assist in locating and rescuing people trapped inside tunnels.

India has also sent forensic experts to support DNA identification efforts. The relief consignment includes blankets, sleeping bags, tarpaulins, plastic sheets and hygiene kits.

Authorities Continue to Monitor Bhote Koshi
The sudden rise in the Bhote Koshi’s water level has added to anxiety in flood-hit parts of Nepal. However, authorities have said that the immediate threat of a major flood has not emerged and that the river’s flow is currently declining.

With hundreds of people still reportedly stranded and thousands missing after the August 26 disaster, rescue teams continue to face a race against time amid challenging weather and damaged infrastructure.

The disaster has left families across Nepal and India waiting anxiously for news of their loved ones, as rescue and relief operations continue.