Landslide disrupts Bhotekoshi’s flow, downstream residents warned

A significant landslide near Nyalam on the Chinese side of the border has disrupted the flow of the Bhotekoshi River, prompting authorities to issue warnings to downstream residents. The landslide began Thursday morning, sending rocks and earth into the river. The affected area is across from Nepal's Liping Bazar.

Local officials expressed concern that the debris could obstruct the river, leading to a sudden and dangerous surge downstream. Residents in several communities, including Balephi Bazar, were specifically urged to exercise heightened caution. However, Shashidhar Ghimire, chief district officer of Sindhupalchok, downplayed the severity of the blockage. He stated that reports of the river being half blocked were inaccurate, with only a small amount of debris falling into the water. Ghimire assured that the Bhotekoshi River was continuing to flow normally and there was no immediate need for panic.

“

A landslide has been falling from the cliff around Jhimmu Post in Nyalam on the Chinese side since about 6:30 am Thursday. As the landslide has affected the river’s flow, we have urged people downstream to remain alert.

Security agencies and local authorities are continuously monitoring the situation. Residents have been advised to stay away from riverbanks and downstream areas, move to higher ground if they notice any changes in the river's flow, and to report any issues immediately.

“

Half of the river has not been blocked. Only a small amount of debris has fallen into the river, and the river is continuing to flow normally. There is no need to panic at this point.