In the early hours of July 12, 2024, a devastating landslide swept two passenger buses into the Trishuli River in Nepal. The incident occurred on the Narayanghat-Mugling highway, about 100km from Kathmandu. According to various sources,
The first bus was operated by Angel Bus and was heading towards Kathmandu with at least 24 passengers on board. The second bus, operated by Ganapati Deluxe, was en route to Rautahat with at least 41 passengers.
Three survivors were reported from the Rautahat-bound bus as they managed to jump off before it went into the river. However, more than 60 people are still missing.
The landslide was triggered by heavy monsoon rains that have been affecting Nepal since June. The country is particularly vulnerable to climate change and monsoon-related disasters have been deadlier than usual this year.
Rescue efforts are ongoing but have been hindered by continuous rain and more landslides in the area. The Trishuli River, which is generally fast-flowing due to Nepal's mountainous terrain, has swollen and turned murky brown from the heavy downpours. This makes it difficult for rescuers to locate the missing buses.
The three survivors were treated in hospitals and are currently recovering. The driver of another bus on the same section of road died due to a boulder hitting his vehicle while driving from Butwal to Kathmandu.
Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal expressed concern over the incident and called for all government agencies to join in the search and rescue operation. The monsoon season brings heavy rains to Nepal from June to September, often triggering landslides in the mountainous Himalayan country.
The Nepalese government has also imposed a ban on passenger buses traveling at night in areas where weather warnings have been issued.
This tragic incident serves as a reminder of the importance of safety during monsoon season and the need for effective disaster management measures.
