July 12, 2024: Early this morning, a catastrophic landslide along the Mugling-Narayanghat road section swept two passenger buses into the Trishuli River in the Simaltal area of Chitwan district of Nepal. This disaster has raised serious concerns about road safety and disaster management in Nepal, particularly during the monsoon season.
At approximately 3:30 AM, two buses carrying 65 people, including 7 Indians traveling through Simaltal in Bharatpur Metropolitan City-29, were caught in a landslide that pushed them off the road and into the river below. The first bus, operated by Ganapati Deluxe, was en route to Gaur in Rautahat from Kathmandu, carrying around 41 passengers. The second bus, operated by Angel Deluxe, was traveling from Birgunj to Kathmandu with around 24 passengers on board.
Rescue operations commenced swiftly, involving over 75 personnel from the Nepali Army, Armed Police Force, and local security forces. However, heavy rainfall and high water levels in the Trishuli River have significantly hindered their efforts. Despite these challenges, a diving team from the Nepali Army and the Armed Police Force is actively searching for the missing buses, but vehicles have yet to be located.
The Mugling-Narayanghat road, a crucial artery for transportation in Nepal, has faced severe disruptions due to the landslide. While authorities have managed to clear debris at the incident site, facilitating temporary one-way traffic, continuous landslide debris and falling stones are complicating efforts to restore full traffic flow. The Kalikhola area, initially blocked, was reopened around 1 PM today, allowing for one-way traffic. Authorities are working diligently to enable two-way traffic as soon as possible.
Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda' expressed profound sadness over the incident through his social media platform 'X.' He lamented the loss of lives and property caused by the country's landslide and other monsoon-related disasters. The Prime Minister has instructed all relevant government agencies, including the Home Administration, to undertake immediate and effective measures to locate and rescue the missing passengers.
Nepal has been grappling with the adverse effects of monsoon rains, which have triggered numerous landslides and floods. Last night, 11 fatalities were reported in Kaski district alone due to multiple landslide incidents. The ongoing monsoon season continues to significantly threaten the safety and well-being of residents, travelers, and infrastructure.
The tragic landslide along the Mugling-Narayanghat road highlights the urgent need for improved disaster management and infrastructure resilience in Nepal. As rescue operations continue, the nation holds its breath, hoping for the safe recovery of the missing passengers and a swift return to normalcy on this vital transportation route.
By addressing the challenges posed by natural disasters, Nepal can enhance its preparedness and response strategies, ultimately safeguarding lives and property from the relentless forces of nature.