More than 100 international hikers are currently isolated in central Nepal following severe flash floods that devastated infrastructure in the Gorkha district. The deluge, which occurred on Sunday, washed away bridges, hiking trails, and hundreds of residences, leaving many trekkers unable to proceed or return safely.
Bhuwan Raj Ojha, an official with the Manaslu Conservation Area Project, informed Reuters that the survivors are scattered across various points of the popular Manaslu trekking route due to sections of the path being swept away. He noted that while some hikers require rescue to return home, others who wish to continue can do so from secure locations, as local restaurants and tea houses remain intact and safe.
The disaster was triggered by a predawn landslide that blocked the Budhi Gandaki River in Gorkha, located approximately 100 kilometers west of the capital, Kathmandu. Rescue teams have so far saved 321 individuals, including 12 foreigners, with the military confirming that operations would persist on Tuesday as river levels began to recede.
Although no deaths have been reported from this specific incident, authorities expressed concern after five villagers went missing. Black mud and debris carried downstream destroyed more than 200 homes and damaged critical infrastructure, including three hydroelectric plants, according to national disaster management officials.
Md Shahadat Hossain, a Bangladeshi trekker stuck in Jagat village, told the Anadolu news agency that nine of his countrymen were awaiting potential helicopter evacuation. He described how a sudden flood surged from above the village, rendering them safe but cut off from electricity and outside communication, with food supplies gradually diminishing.
The Budhi Gandaki River is a tributary of the Trishuli River. This area is still recovering from a catastrophic flood in August caused by a glacier collapse, which claimed 1,457 lives and left thousands still missing.
In response to the current crisis, Gorkha district officials have ordered the evacuation of residents living along downstream riverbanks. National disaster authorities have also issued alerts to communities in the Gorkha, Tanahun, Chitwan, East Nawalparasi, and West Nawalparasi districts regarding rising flood waters.
I trek Manaslu every year. The suddenness of these landslides is shocking. Please exercise extreme caution if you’re planning trips there.
Thirty-two1 rescued so far is good, but the missing villagers are deeply concerning. Praying for their safe return.
Is Nepal ready for the monsoon season this year? The recall of the August tragedy is a stark reminder of the region’s vulnerability.
Relief that no fatalities reported, but the infrastructure damage is terrifying. Hope those tea houses can support the stranded trekkers.