Devastating Floods in Nepal: 18 Missing as Key Bridge to China is Swept Away

Kathmandu, Jul 8 (PTI) Monsoon rains have led to a devastating flood in Nepal, sweeping away 18 people and the key bridge that connects the country to China. This alarming event unfolded as torrential rains in China on Monday night instigated a flood in Nepal's Bhotekoshi River. The Miteri Bridge, located in Rasuwa district and lying 120 km northeast of Kathmandu, succumbed to the deluge around 3:15 am on Tuesday. Among the 18 missing individuals are six Chinese nationals, as reported by official sources. Rescue efforts conducted by a joint team from the Nepal Army, Armed Police Force, and Nepal Police have successfully saved 11 people, including two police officers, according to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA). Arjun Paudel, the chief district officer of Rasuwa, remarked on the severe destruction caused by the flood, emphasizing the urgent need for residents downstream to relocate to safer areas. In addition to dismantling several homes, the flood also washed away five electric vehicles that had been imported from China.