Massive flood in Rasuwagadhi; bridge on Nepal-China border washed away

KATHMANDU: A sudden flood in the Bhotekoshi River has washed away the Miteri Bridge, a key Nepal–China connection point in Rasuwa district.

Photos shared on social media show the bridge, built over Lendekhoala, which drains the northern reaches of Langtang region and the Chinese side of the Himalayas, completely washed away. Lendekhola meets the Kyirong River, which comes from China, at the border point. It is known as the Bhotekhoshi River downstream

According to Assistant CDO of Rasuwa, Dhruba Prasad Adhikari, the flood struck at around 3 am.

“We have received reports that 8-10 people are missing. We are looking into it,” Customs Police Post Inspector Prakash Pandey told Himal Press.

Videos and photos shared on social media show that container trucks in the customs yard look almost fully submerged. Several electric vehicles imported from China and awaiting clearance at customs have also been washed away. The Rasuwagadhi Hydropower Project has also suffered structural damage, according to officials.

Meanwhile, the local administration has issued an advisory to people in downstream villages like Mailung and Betrabati as well as Trishuli Bazaar, to remain vigilant.