More than 100 foreign trekkers are currently stranded in the Gorkha district of central Nepal after a sudden flood washed away sections of popular hiking routes and bridges. The disaster unfolded over the weekend when a landslide blocked the Budhi Gandaki River, causing downstream flooding that swept away trails and damaged infrastructure.
Rescue operations and safety updates
Authorities have rescued 96 people, including nine foreign nationals, and the Nepalese army continues to conduct rescue missions. No fatalities have been reported, though five local villagers remain out of contact after the river, carrying black muddy sludge, destroyed homes and three hydroelectric plants.
Bhuwan Raj Ojha, an official with the Manaslu Conservation Area Project, told Reuters that the stranded hikers can either wait for rescue or continue their trek from safe locations along the route. “There are restaurants and tea houses along the route. They are safe,” he said.
Broader context and expert commentary
The Budhi Gandaki River is a tributary of the Trishuli River, which earlier this year experienced a catastrophic flood caused by a glacier collapse that killed 1,457 people and left thousands missing. The International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) noted that the recent flood may have been triggered by the failure of a temporary river blockage created by the landslide.
“This event is another reminder of how exposed mountain communities and river corridors remain to sudden, cascading hazards,” said Pema Gyamtsho, director general of ICIMOD. He emphasized that while immediate response remains the priority, understanding the flood’s trigger is essential for reducing future risks and strengthening resilience.
Local officials continue to monitor the situation as the floodwaters recede, urging trekkers to stay informed and follow safety guidance.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
