Catastrophic Landslide Plunges Buses into Nepal River, Dozens Feared Missing

Rescue operations are underway in Nepal following a devastating landslide that swept two buses into the Trishuli River in the early hours of Friday. The disaster occurred at around 03:30 local time (21:45 GMT Thursday) along the Narayanghat-Mugling highway in Chitwan, approximately 100 kilometers from Kathmandu. Heavy monsoon rains triggered the landslide, which has left more than 60 people missing​.

Survivors' Accounts

Survivors recounted harrowing experiences. Nandan Das, one of the few who made it out alive, described being thrown out of the bus window into the river. Despite the darkness and turbulent waters, he managed to swim to safety, navigating through large boulders and thick foliage. Another survivor, Jogishwar Raya, recalled the bus overturning multiple times before plunging into the river. Tragically, Raya’s family members are still missing, highlighting the personal toll of the disaster​.

Immediate Response

Rescue teams, including police and army personnel, were dispatched to the scene promptly. Authorities have deployed helicopters and other resources to aid in the search and rescue efforts. Nepal’s Prime Minister, Pushpa Kamal Dahal, has called for all government agencies to join the rescue operation, underscoring the severity of the situation​​.

Broader Context

This incident is part of a broader pattern of natural disasters during Nepal's monsoon season, which spans several months and is characterized by heavy rainfall that frequently triggers floods and landslides. These events have devastating effects on the country's infrastructure and population. The Narayanghat-Mugling highway, a critical route connecting Kathmandu to other parts of the country, is particularly vulnerable due to its mountainous terrain and the heavy rains that weaken the slopes​​.

Road Safety Concerns

Nepal's road conditions contribute significantly to the danger. The country's topography, combined with poorly maintained roads and reckless driving, exacerbates the risk of such accidents. Many roads are built without adequate engineering standards, making them susceptible to landslides and other natural disasters. The Narayanghat-Mugling section is notorious for its hazardous conditions during the monsoon season.

Ongoing Threats

In addition to the immediate tragedy, there are broader concerns about the region's safety. The Koshi River, which flows through Nepal and into India, is currently above the danger level, prompting warnings and preparedness measures in downstream regions. The threat of additional landslides and floods remains high, necessitating continued vigilance and proactive measures by authorities​​.

As rescue efforts continue, the focus remains on finding the missing individuals and providing support to the survivors. This incident highlights the urgent need for improved infrastructure and disaster preparedness in Nepal to mitigate the impact of such natural disasters in the future.