Nepal has been devastated by unseasonal rains over the past 48 hours, with Nepal floods and landslides Nepal claiming 52 lives so far. Dozens of people have been injured and many remain missing. The country’s eastern region, particularly Ilam district floods in Koshi Province, has witnessed the worst destruction, where alone 37 people lost their lives in floods and landslides. The Nepal government has deployed the army and police for emergency relief, while India humanitarian aid was the first to provide support and express condolences amid the ongoing disaster.
Nature’s Fury: Rivers, Villages and Roads Ravaged
Since Thursday evening, heavy downpours have battered Nepal’s eastern and southern districts. Rivers have swollen dangerously, while several villages have been submerged under water and mud. Roads have collapsed, debris has piled up, and houses have crumbled instantly. In hilly regions, landslides caused mountains to cave in—particularly in Ilam district, where a midnight landslide killed several people. A family of six perished together in the tragedy. Hundreds of people have been evacuated to safer areas, but the fear of further calamity continues to loom.
Transport and Air Services Paralyzed
National highways across Nepal remain shut due to continuous rains and land subsidence. In many areas, vehicular movement has been restricted, with exceptions made only during the day for relief operations and essential supplies. Nighttime travel has been completely banned. Air services too have been thrown into chaos. Despite clear weather, flights from Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport to destinations like Pokhara, Janakpur, Bharatpur, and Bhadrapur have been cancelled, leaving thousands of passengers stranded. Long-route helicopter services are also unable to operate because of the disaster.
Relief Operations Hit by Weather
The government has mobilized army, police, and local authorities for rescue and relief work in the affected areas. Helicopters are being used to reach stranded villagers in remote regions. However, relentless rains, collapsed roads, and debris have severely hampered the operations. Delivering relief supplies and medicines to villages cut off by rivers or landslides has become a daunting mission for authorities.
Fear Persists Among Citizens
The Meteorological Department of Nepal has issued fresh warnings, predicting heavy rainfall in districts across Koshi, Madhesh, Bagmati, Gandaki, and Lumbini provinces within the next 24 hours. Authorities have urged people to avoid unnecessary travel and strictly follow official advisories. Daily life in several areas has come to a standstill, with people seeking refuge in higher grounds. Thousands of travelers, particularly those returning home after the Dashain festival, remain stranded, as special teams work to ensure their safety.
India Extends a Helping Hand
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy in Nepal. In a message, he assured that India stands as Nepal’s “First Responder” and is ready to provide assistance at every level—be it medical, technical, or logistical. Prime Minister Modi has also spoken directly with his Nepalese counterpart, promising full support. The Indian Embassy in Kathmandu is coordinating with Nepal’s government, preparing to dispatch relief supplies and rescue teams. India has a history of playing an active humanitarian role in Nepal during past disasters, including earthquakes and floods, reflecting the strong ties between the two neighbours.
Festivals Overshadowed by Disaster
The tragedy struck Nepal at a time when the nation was celebrating the Dashain festival. Just as people were returning to their homes after festivities, nature unleashed its fury. Schools have shut down, markets are deserted, and fear is etched on people’s faces. Educational institutions remain closed, while administrations in several districts have issued emergency warnings. Citizens and voluntary groups are pooling resources to provide food, clothing, and medicines to victims.
Global Response to Nepal’s Crisis
Alongside India, several countries and international agencies have expressed solidarity with Nepal. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has issued an alert and offered technical support for disaster management. Neighboring nations have pledged relief materials and field teams. Hopes remain that Nepal will recover from this catastrophe with international assistance.
Government’s Special Roadmap
The Nepal government has drawn up both emergency and long-term plans for relief and rehabilitation. A special task force, comprising the Disaster Management Authority, Health Department, and Public Works Department, is coordinating efforts in affected districts. Temporary shelters, medical supplies, and safe drinking water arrangements are being set up in rural areas. Losses in livestock and agriculture are being assessed to determine compensation for farmers.
Warnings of Continued Risk
The monsoon has not fully withdrawn from Nepal. Weather authorities predict that rainfall may continue in southwestern regions in the coming days. Citizens have been advised to remain cautious, particularly in landslide-prone and flood-hit areas, and to strictly adhere to government guidelines. Relief teams remain active, but community participation is equally vital during this crisis.
Pain and Hope Together
While Nepal floods and landslides Nepal have left deep scars across the country, the nation’s unity, India humanitarian aid, and international disaster support have provided hope. Amidst the devastation caused by floods and landslides, every Nepali heart wishes that the wounds from the Ilam district floods and other affected areas will soon heal and life will return to normalcy.
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Utkarsh works as a Sub-Editor at 1Tak News. Technology and gadgets are his main beats, and he also tracks automobiles. A graduate of Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapeeth, he began his journalism career in 2023 and has built experience across digital media platforms like 1Tak. Besides technology, he also has considerable experience covering national affairs, politics, research, and international news.
