Severe Weather Triggers Catastrophic Landslides and Floods in Nepal
Heavy rainfall has unleashed a wave of destruction across Nepal, resulting in at least 47 fatalities and significant infrastructural damage. The relentless downpours have triggered landslides and flash floods, particularly affecting the eastern regions of the country, where emergency services are struggling to respond effectively to the crisis.
Devastating Impact of Landslides
The most severe impact has been felt in the Ilam district, which borders India. According to Kalidas Dhauboji, a spokesperson for the Armed Police Force, 35 individuals lost their lives in separate landslides in this area alone. The situation has been exacerbated by the disappearance of nine people swept away by floodwaters since Friday, alongside three additional fatalities caused by lightning strikes in other parts of Nepal.
Shanti Mahat, a spokesperson for the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority, confirmed that rescue operations are ongoing, but the adverse weather conditions are hampering efforts. The government has declared Monday and Tuesday as public holidays to facilitate emergency responses, a decision justified by forecasts of continued heavy rainfall, as stated by government spokesperson Rameshwar Dangal.
Red Alerts and Evacuations
Meteorological authorities have issued red alerts for over a dozen districts, warning residents near waterways to evacuate immediately. Kamal Ram Joshi, the chief of the meteorological department, indicated that major population centers, including parts of the capital, Kathmandu, are at risk. The Bagmati, Gandaki, Lumbini, and Madhesh provinces are expected to experience the worst of the ongoing downpours.
The heavy rains have wreaked havoc on transport infrastructure, with landslides blocking all major routes into Kathmandu. The Araniko Highway, which connects the capital to the Chinese border, has been rendered impassable due to multiple road collapses. Similarly, the BP Highway, a vital link for eastern regions, is buried under debris.
Aviation Disruptions
Aviation authorities suspended domestic flights on Saturday due to poor visibility, although international flights continued with some disruptions. Rinji Sherpa, a spokesperson for Kathmandu airport, noted that while domestic operations are largely affected, international flights are still functioning.
Timing of the Crisis
The timing of this disaster is particularly concerning, as it coincides with the aftermath of Dashain, Nepal’s most significant religious festival. This two-week celebration culminated on Thursday, prompting hundreds of thousands of people to return to their homes. The influx of travelers has complicated rescue and recovery efforts, as many are now stranded due to blocked roads.
Rising Water Levels and Regional Concerns
One of the most alarming developments is the rising water levels of the Koshi River in southeastern Nepal, which have surged to more than double their normal volume. Local official Dharmendra Kumar Mishra confirmed that all 56 sluice gates at the Koshi Barrage have been opened, a drastic measure compared to the usual 10 to 12 gates. Authorities are also considering restricting heavy vehicles from crossing the river’s bridge, given its history of causing devastating floods in India’s Bihar state during the monsoon season.
Regional Impact in India
The effects of the heavy rainfall are not confined to Nepal. In the eastern Indian hill region of Darjeeling, at least seven people have died due to landslides triggered by the same weather system. Abhishek Roy, a police official in Darjeeling, reported that seven bodies have been recovered from the debris, with efforts ongoing to locate two additional individuals.
Historical Context of Monsoon Disasters
Landslides and flash floods are not uncommon in Nepal, particularly during the monsoon season, which typically spans from mid-June to mid-September. Each year, hundreds of lives are lost due to these natural disasters, highlighting the vulnerability of the region’s mountainous terrain. The combination of steep slopes, heavy rainfall, and deforestation exacerbates the risks, making effective disaster management a critical concern for the government.
Conclusion
As Nepal grapples with the aftermath of this devastating weather event, the focus remains on rescue and recovery efforts. The government’s decision to declare public holidays aims to streamline emergency responses, but the challenges posed by the ongoing rains and damaged infrastructure are significant. With the monsoon season still in effect, the potential for further disasters looms large, underscoring the urgent need for improved disaster preparedness and response strategies in this vulnerable region.
