Monsoon Fury in Nepal: Maitri Bridge Collapse Leaves 18 Missing, Disrupts Border

Heavy monsoon rains have triggered devastating floods across Nepal, causing widespread destruction and loss. the Bhotekoshi River, swollen by relentless downpours, swept away the Maitri Bridge, a vital link between Nepal and China, located 120 km north of Kathmandu in Rasuwagadi. The collapse has left 12 Nepalese and 6 Chinese citizens missing, deepening the crisis in the flood-hit region. This disaster has disrupted lives and infrastructure, highlighting Nepal’s vulnerability to extreme weather.

Maitri Bridge Washed Away

Its destruction has halted border traffic, stranding trucks and electric vehicles at the Rasuwagadi customs port. The floodwaters also swept away houses, containers, and vehicles, including eight electric vehicles from a charging station in Timure. The surging river, possibly exacerbated by heavy rainfall in Tibet, has severed connectivity in Rasuwa district, complicating relief efforts and leaving local communities isolated.

Search for the Missing Intensifies

Rescue operations are underway, with 95 personnel, including police and Armed Police Force members, deployed to search for the 18 missing individuals. . The emergency team faces treacherous conditions as they comb the debris-strewn riverbanks. The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority is coordinating the response, urging locals to remain vigilant amid fears of further flooding.

Monsoon Fury in Nepal

The Rasuwagadhi Hydropower Project’s dam has also suffered significant damage, though national power supply remains stable for now. As rescue teams persevere, the disaster highlights the urgent need for climate-resilient infrastructure in Nepal’s mountainous terrain. Authorities continue to assess the damage, with hopes of restoring connectivity and finding the missing soon.