### Tragedy in Nepal: 63 Missing After Landslide Sweeps Two Buses into Trishuli River, Kathmandu-Bharatpur Flights Cancelled
#### The Incident
On a seemingly regular day, disaster struck when a massive landslide engulfed two buses travelling along the Prithvi Highway, pushing them into the tumultuous waters of the Trishuli River. The incident has resulted in 63 missing after the landslide swept the buses into the Trishuli River in Nepal. The buses were on their way to Kathmandu and Gaur, carrying 65 passengers in total.
Nepal Bus Accident:
In response to the catastrophe, authorities have cancelled Kathmandu-Bharatpur flights to prioritise rescue efforts and ensure the safety of travellers. The decision reflects the severity of the situation and the need for immediate and concentrated rescue operations. With flights cancelled, resources and personnel can be redirected to the disaster site, aiming to locate and save as many lives as possible.
#### Immediate Response and Rescue Efforts
The local authorities, alongside rescue teams, have been working tirelessly to locate the 63 missing after the landslide swept two buses into the Trishuli River in Nepal. The rough terrain and the forceful current of the river have posed significant challenges to the rescue operations. Helicopters, boats, and a dedicated team of divers have been deployed to search for survivors, but hopes are dwindling as the hours pass. The rescue operations are a race against time, with each moment critical for those who may still be trapped or struggling in the river.
Nepal Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ directed all government agencies to search and rescue the passengers. "I am deeply saddened by the reports of about five dozen passengers that are missing after the buses were washed away by a landslide on the Narayangadh-Muglin road section and the loss of properties due to floods and landslides in different parts of the country. I direct all agencies of the government, including the home administration, to search and effectively rescue the passengers," Dahal posted on X. The prime minister’s directive underscores the urgency and scale of the rescue efforts required.
#### Nepal: 11 Killed, 8 Missing in Flash Floods and Landslides Amid Heavy Rain
Since the onset of the monsoon season, at least 62 people have been killed, and 90 others sustained injuries in rain-related incidents in Nepal. The heavy rains have caused substantial property damage, with at least 121 houses inundated and 82 others damaged. The natural disasters have displaced a total of 1,058 households across the country. The ongoing monsoon season has been particularly harsh, exacerbating the challenges faced by rescue teams.
Expressing grief over the loss of life and property due to floods and landslides, the prime minister urged citizens to take necessary precautions. "I am deeply saddened by the loss of nearly five dozen passengers and the loss of property due to floods and landslides in different parts of the country when a bus was washed away by a landslide on the Narayangadh-Muglin road section. I direct all agencies of the government, including the home administration, to search and effectively rescue the passengers," Prachanda reiterated on X.
#### The Broader Impact and Ongoing Efforts The impact of the landslide and the ongoing monsoon-related disasters in Nepal has been devastating. Including the current incident, more than 1,800 people have lost their lives in a decade due to monsoon disasters. During this period, about 400 people went missing and more than 1,500 were injured. The frequency and severity of these natural disasters call for enhanced preparedness and response mechanisms.
Kathmandu, at least 65 people, including seven Indian nationals, are believed to be missing after two buses were swept away by a landslide in Nepal and pushed into a swollen river on Friday. The two buses carrying 65 passengers went missing in the Trishuli River in the landslides at Simaltal area along the Narayanghat-Mugling road in Chitwan district, myRepublica news portal reported quoting officials. Chief District Officer of Chitwan, Indradev Yadav, confirmed the incident.
#### Ongoing Rescue Operations and Community Support
Rescue workers have started clearing the landslide debris in an attempt to reach the trapped passengers. Expressing grief over the disappearance of the bus in the Trishuli River, Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda' has issued directives for immediate search and rescue operations. Nepal Police and Armed Police Force personnel are heading towards the incident sites for rescue operations, Superintendent of Police Bhawesh Rimal said. The coordinated efforts of various agencies are crucial in managing such large-scale disasters.
Debris from landslides at various places has obstructed traffic on the Narayanghat-Mugling road section. Meanwhile, in a separate incident, at least 11 people died in landslides and floods triggered by incessant rain in Kaski district on Thursday. The cumulative effect of these disasters has stretched the resources and capabilities of rescue teams.
#### The Way Forward
The tragedy in Nepal, with 63 missing after a landslide swept two buses into the Trishuli River, has highlighted the urgent need for improved infrastructure and disaster management strategies. The cancellation of Kathmandu-Bharatpur flights, while necessary, also points to the broader implications for connectivity and accessibility in times of crisis. The nation must prioritise strengthening its resilience to natural disasters, ensuring that such tragedies are met with swift and effective responses.
The ongoing rescue efforts reflect the determination and solidarity of the Nepali community and its government. As the nation mourns and hopes for the safety of the missing individuals, it is a poignant reminder of the unpredictable and often devastating power of nature. The path to recovery will be long and challenging, but with collective effort and support, Nepal can emerge stronger and better prepared for future adversities.
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