Sindhupalchowk DAO urges caution as floods cause widespread damage in Rasuwa and Sindhupalchok – The Himalayan Times – Nepal’s No.1 English Daily Newspaper

KATHMANDU, JULY 8

The Sindhupalchowk District Administration Office (DAO) has issued a public notice urging residents near the Bhotekoshi and Sunkoshi rivers to remain alert amid forecasts of intensified rainfall and rising water levels.

According to the notice, the DAO received information from Chinese authorities about continuous heavy rainfall in Tibet’s Nyalam region, prompting warnings for residents of Sindhupalchowk.

“There is a possibility of heavy rain tonight, and river levels may rise rapidly,” the DAO said, citing information from Chinese officials. The public has also been advised to drive with caution along the Araniko Highway, especially between Bandeu and Liping.

Meanwhile, Nepal Police reported significant damage and ongoing rescue operations in Rasuwa district following early Tuesday morning floods triggered by overnight rain.

As of 3:00 PM, police confirmed that 18 people remain missing, including three police personnel, six Chinese nationals, and nine local residents.

The worst-hit areas include, Gosainkunda Rural Municipality (Wards 1, 2, 3), Aamachhodingmo Rural Municipality (Wards 1, 2, 3, 4), Uttargaya Rural Municipality (Wards 1, 2, 4, 5), and Kalika Rural Municipality (Ward 1).

Rescue teams have managed to save 11 individuals, while seven bodies have been recovered, according to police.

Among the major infrastructure losses is the Miteri Bridge, a crucial cross-border link between Nepal and China, which was completely swept away, halting all movement. Additional damages include the destruction of an EV charging station, the loss of 70–80 electric vehicles, damage to the Rasuwa Customs Office yard, and destruction at the Rasuwagadhi Hydropower dam.

The Pasang Lhamu Highway section from Dhunche to Timure has also been blocked due to road collapse in Gosainkunda Rural Municipality–5.

Rescue operations are ongoing and authorities have urged the public to stay informed through official updates and to exercise maximum caution.