Rasuwa flood: Government details search, rescue, and relief efforts

Nepal's government is actively responding to a severe flash flood that devastated parts of Rasuwa, Nuwakot, and Dhading districts. The government has mobilized significant resources, including 13 helicopters operated by the Nepal Army and private companies, to conduct search and rescue missions in the affected regions. Additional air and ground support are being prepared as needed.

In a humanitarian effort, the government has committed to providing free medical treatment for all flood victims. Five major hospitals, including the Trauma Centre and Bir Hospital, are on standby for severe cases. A dedicated medical team comprising doctors from the Army, Nepal Police, and Armed Police Force has been dispatched to Nuwakot District Hospital to provide immediate care.

To facilitate rescue operations, an emergency system has been activated, including a toll-free number (1234) for reporting missing or stranded individuals. Authorities have issued urgent warnings to residents living along the Bhote Koshi and Trishuli river corridors, urging them to move to safer locations and avoid high-risk travel routes. The government has also released emergency funds totaling Rs 25 million to the disaster management funds of Rasuwa, Nuwakot, and Dhading.

Furthermore, the Cabinet has directed ministries to expedite the restoration of damaged infrastructure, including roads, bridges, water systems, electricity, and telecommunications. Displaced individuals are being relocated to safer areas and provided with essential shelter and relief supplies. The affected local governments have been declared disaster crisis zones for three months, and financial assistance will be provided to the families of victims in accordance with existing laws.