A sudden flash flood entered Nepal through the Bhotekoshi River from the Tibetan side on Wednesday morning, causing damage in parts of Rasuwa and raising serious safety concerns for communities and travellers along the downstream river corridor.
The flood struck the Timure and Syabrubesi areas at around 8:30 a.m., prompting authorities to intensify emergency response and rescue efforts. The floodwater has moved downstream toward Nuwakot and Dhading and is expected to reach the Muglin area in the coming hours, increasing the risk along sections of the Bhotekoshi and Trishuli rivers.
Travel Alert Issued for Tourists
Tourists currently travelling or staying in Rasuwa, Nuwakot, Dhading, Gorkha, Chitwan and other areas along the Bhotekoshi–Trishuli river corridor have been urged to exercise extreme caution. Visitors are advised to stay away from riverbanks, bridges, low-lying areas and flood-prone locations and to follow instructions issued by local authorities, security agencies and Tourist Police. Travellers should remain in safe locations, maintain regular contact with their hotels, trekking agencies, guides or local tourism operators, and check road conditions before starting any onward journey. Authorities have also strongly warned people not to attempt to cross flooded roads, streams or rivers. Anyone instructed to evacuate should immediately move toward higher and safer ground.
Major Roads Affected by the Flood Risk
The developing situation has raised concerns along several major highways and roads connecting Kathmandu with popular tourism destinations. The routes currently facing heightened risk include:
- Prithvi Highway
- Galchhi–Nuwakot–Rasuwa–Syabrubesi Road
- Muglin–Narayangadh Road
As a precaution, Kathmandu Valley Traffic Police have halted vehicles travelling from Kathmandu toward Rasuwa, Nuwakot, Dhading and Chitwan. Travellers are therefore advised not to proceed toward these destinations until authorities provide confirmation that the roads are safe for travel.
Rescue and Emergency Response Intensified
Emergency response operations are underway as authorities assess the damage caused by the sudden flood. Two Nepal Army helicopters have been deployed to Rasuwa to support rescue and emergency response operations.
Home Minister Sudhan Gurung has urged residents and travellers to avoid unnecessary movement along affected highways and river corridors. People staying near the Bhotekoshi and Trishuli rivers, including areas extending toward Muglin, have been asked to remain on high alert until further notice. Authorities are continuing to monitor the movement of floodwater and coordinate with local administrations and security agencies to respond to emerging risks.
Emergency Contacts for Tourists and the Public
People affected by the flood or requiring urgent assistance are advised to contact the following numbers:
Toll-Free Emergency: 1234
For emergency assistance, search and rescue support, and urgent coordination.
Hotline: 1144
For emergency-related information and assistance.
Tourist Police: 9851249560
For tourists requiring assistance or facing difficulties during their journey.
In an immediate emergency, move to higher and safer ground first and contact the appropriate emergency service.
Tourists Advised to Postpone Travel
Visitors planning to travel to Rasuwa, Nuwakot, Dhading, Gorkha, Chitwan and other destinations along the Bhotekoshi–Trishuli corridor are strongly advised to postpone their journeys until official authorities confirm that conditions are safe. Tourists already in the affected areas are advised to remain calm, stay informed and cooperate fully with local authorities, security personnel and tourism operators.
They should rely on verified information from government agencies and responsible tourism organizations rather than unconfirmed reports circulating on social media. Tourists or other affected individuals requiring coordination or assistance are also encouraged to submit their details through the designated emergency assistance form so that relevant authorities can facilitate appropriate support.
