Flash Floods Leave Over 100 Trekkers Stranded in Nepal's Gorkha Region
A recent flash flood in Nepal's Gorkha district has stranded over 100 foreign trekkers along the popular Manaslu trekking trail. The floods washed away critical infrastructure, prompting rescue operations and safety measures for those affected.
In a significant incident affecting outdoor adventurers, more than 100 foreign trekkers have found themselves stranded in Nepal's Gorkha district following devastating flash floods. The floods, which occurred on Sunday, resulted from a landslide that blocked the Budhi Gandaki River, leading to the destruction of bridges and hiking trails, as well as the displacement of hundreds of homes. Bhuwan Raj Ojha, an official from the Manaslu Conservation Area Project, confirmed that the trekkers are scattered across various locations on the Manaslu trekking route, with some wishing to return while others prefer to continue their journey from safer spots.
Ojha stated, "Those hikers who want to return because of the flood need to be rescued. Those who want to continue their trekking can do so from locations that are safe." He reassured that there are restaurants and tea houses along the route where trekkers can find shelter and sustenance.
The flash floods struck early Sunday morning, causing significant disruptions in the region. As a result of the flooding, authorities have successfully rescued 321 individuals, including 12 foreigners, and the rescue efforts are set to continue as conditions improve. Fortunately, there have been no reported fatalities from this incident, although five villagers remain unaccounted for after the floodwaters swept away over 200 homes and damaged vital infrastructure, including three hydroelectric plants.
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Among those stranded is Md Shahadat Hossain, a Bangladeshi trekker currently in Jagat village. He reported that nine fellow Bangladeshi trekkers are awaiting potential helicopter evacuation. Hossain noted, "We are safe, but there has been no electricity since yesterday, communication with the outside world has been disrupted, and food supplies are gradually running short."
Gorkha district authorities are urging residents living along the riverbanks downstream to evacuate as a precautionary measure. National disaster officials have also issued warnings to communities in the Gorkha, Tanahun, Chitwan, East Nawalparasi, and West Nawalparasi districts about the potential for further flooding. This incident highlights the importance of preparedness and safety measures for trekkers exploring the rugged terrain of Nepal, especially in light of the region's vulnerability to natural disasters.
