Massive Flood Sweeps Through Rasuwa Near Tibet Border; Settlements, Bridges and Hydropower Infrastructure Damaged
Kathmandu/New Delhi, August 26, 2026: A massive flash flood swept through Nepal’s Rasuwa district near the Tibet border on Wednesday, causing widespread destruction and leaving hundreds of people unaccounted for.
According to a preliminary list compiled by the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB), 384 travellers have been reported missing from the affected areas. The list includes 291 foreign nationals and 93 Nepali nationals. Among the foreign nationals, 105 are Indian citizens and 37 are identified as non-resident Indians (NRIs). The figures are preliminary and authorities are continuing to verify the whereabouts and safety of those listed.
Flash Flood Hits Bhote Koshi River
The sudden surge of water occurred in the Bhote Koshi River around 8:30–9:00 AM local time, affecting the Rasuwagadhi–Timure area and surrounding regions. The floodwaters moved through parts of Rasuwa and also affected neighbouring Nuwakot and Dhading districts.
The powerful flow swept away vehicles, buildings, goods, bridges and other infrastructure. Several hydropower facilities in the region were also damaged, adding to concerns over connectivity and electricity infrastructure.
105 Indians and 37 NRIs Missing
The Nepal Tourism Board said its preliminary information was collected from tourism and travel companies operating in the affected region.
The missing list includes travellers from India, the United States, Malaysia, the United Kingdom, South Africa, Australia and the Netherlands, while the nationalities of some people are yet to be confirmed.
Most of the Indian travellers were reportedly travelling towards Kailash Mansarovar in Tibet. One travel agency said at least 59 of the missing Indians were pilgrims undertaking the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.
The Tourism Board stressed that the list is not final and is being cross-checked with travel agencies, tour guides, local authorities and security agencies.
Rescue and Relief Operations Underway
Nepalese security forces and rescue teams have launched search-and-rescue operations in the affected areas. Difficult terrain, heavy debris, damaged roads and disrupted communications are complicating rescue efforts. Authorities are continuing to search for missing people and assess the extent of the damage.
The Embassy of India in Kathmandu has also been coordinating with Nepalese authorities regarding the rescue and relief of Indian nationals affected by the floods. The embassy has issued emergency contact numbers for assistance: +977 985 131 6807 and +977 970 910 7500.
The Nepal Tourism Board has also provided emergency contacts: toll-free 1234, hotline 1144 and Tourist Police 9851289445.
Possible Cause Under Investigation
Initial reports indicate that the disaster may have been linked to a seismic event and an ice-rock avalanche/landslide in the upstream region, which caused a sudden surge into the river system. Reuters reported that an earthquake-induced ice-rock avalanche on the Lhende Khola may have triggered the devastating flood.
Authorities and experts are continuing to assess the exact sequence of events.
Death Toll and Damage
The reported death toll has been changing as rescue operations continue, with later reports putting the number of confirmed deaths at at least 95. The disaster has caused extensive damage to homes, roads, bridges, vehicles and power infrastructure. Because several areas remain difficult to access, officials expect the casualty and missing-person figures to be revised as verification continues.
Authorities have urged people living near riverbanks and vulnerable areas to remain alert and move to safer locations if necessary, amid concerns over additional flooding downstream.
The situation remains a developing disaster, and the numbers of missing persons, casualties and rescued travellers are subject to change as authorities continue verification and search-and-rescue operations
