Deadly Floods in Rasuwa: Causes Behind Repeated Floods and Landslides Along the Nepal-China Border

Experts have indicated that the recurring natural disasters in the Himalayan region along the Nepal-China border are due to the area’s unique geographical structure, changing conditions of glacial lakes, and heavy monsoon rainfall. On Wednesday morning, a devastating flood in the Bhote Koshi/Trisuli River in Rasuwa caused widespread impact across districts including Rasuwa, Nuwakot, Dhading, Gorkha, and Chitwan. The Tibetan region’s extensive glaciers and Nepal’s steep terrain, where most settlements are located, contribute to frequent damages caused by both glacial lake outbursts and avalanches.

“Considering the overall internal experience, the significant changes brought about by rising temperatures in the high Himalayan region may be the primary cause of this disaster,” said Dharma Raj Upreti, Executive Director of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority. Officials have confirmed that this time the flood in the Trisuli River originated from Tibet without first passing through Nepalese territory. Senior meteorologist and spokesperson of the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology, Bibhuti Pokharel, noted that it is still premature to draw a definitive conclusion regarding the exact cause of the event.

“Based on the characteristics of the event, this could likely be a landslide-related incident, and since the displaced water has not entirely been accounted for, the risk remains,” explained Vasant Adhikari, Director of the Disaster Studies Center at Pulchowk Campus. The northern border region shared by Nepal and China encompasses high mountainous terrain. During the monsoon, simultaneous heavy rainfall, changes in glaciers, and landslides result in rapid flows of huge volumes of water, stones, and mud to the lower regions.

“Glacial lake bursts and landslides are potential seasonal and geographical hazards seen along the Nepal-China border area,” said Sudip Thakuri, Associate Professor at Tribhuvan University. Although such seasonal events cannot be entirely prevented, raising awareness and exercising caution can significantly reduce loss of life and property. “Recently, an ‘Early Warning System’ has been implemented that provides real-time information on lake water levels and dam conditions,” he emphasized.