A massive landslide has partially blocked the Chaulani River in Nepal’s Darchula district, prompting authorities to place downstream communities on alert amid fears that continued debris could choke the river and trigger sudden flooding.
The Armed Police Force said the river was flowing at a normal level for now, but personnel from the Nepal Chameliya Hydropower Security Base in Balanch had been mobilised to monitor the situation and alert nearby communities. Authorities have urged people living along the riverbanks to remain vigilant and take precautionary measures. Security personnel have been deployed to warn residents and remain on standby for emergency response. Sudurpaschim Chief Minister Khagraj Bhatta also directed local authorities and security agencies to maintain high alert and prepare for any emergency. The administration has issued emergency contact numbers for flood and disaster assistance. The warning comes as Nepal is still dealing with the impact of severe flooding and flash floods in several areas, with rescue and recovery efforts continuing after recent floods left communities displaced and caused deaths and extensive damage. The latest river blockage has added to concerns that further heavy rain could turn an already unstable situation into another flash-flood emergency.