KATHMANDU: Prime Minister stated that 21 people have died and five remain missing following recent disaster events across the country. Since Sept. 24, incidents including lightning, floods, landslides, windstorms, and continuous rainfall have caused significant human and physical damage in districts such as Myagdi, Dolpa, Dhanusha, Palpa, Baglung, Lamjung, Rukum West, Kavre, Dhading, Makwanpur, and Surkhet.
According to the Prime Minister, 439 monsoon-related incidents have occurred nationwide. Floods, landslides, and inundation have damaged essential infrastructure, including roads, bridges, hydropower projects, and water supply systems. The government has arranged free medical treatment for the injured and provided temporary shelter for affected families. Security personnel are working around the clock on rescue operations.
Transportation networks have been severely disrupted. The East-West Highway was closed after a cruise ship on the Narayani River drifted and became stuck against a bridge. Over a dozen roads, including the Prithvi Highway, BP Highway, and Kanti Highway, have been affected. A concrete bridge over the Kaligandaki River has also been swept away. The government has pledged to repair damaged roads rapidly to restore traffic.
The energy sector has also faced major impacts, with 1,013.2 megawatts of electricity supply halted from the national grid. Projects totaling 318 megawatts are completely shut down due to collapsed transmission towers, while 695.2 megawatts of production have been suspended as a precautionary measure. Technical teams have been deployed to restore power supply as soon as possible.
Water levels in major rivers have risen, leading to travel restrictions at various locations, including the Gaddachauki border point on the Mahakali River. Farmers have also reported significant damage to crops and vegetables. The Prime Minister urged residents in riverbanks and hilly areas to remain on high alert. The government is monitoring for misinformation and black market activities during the crisis. Citizens are advised to call the toll-free number 1234 for emergencies.
