Devastating flood in Rasuwagadhi

Rasuwa – Rasuwagadhi border point, a key trade gateway between Nepal and China, has suffered severe damage in a flash flood this morning (July 8). The flood, which originated from Kerung and Lende rivers has made a prominent and massive impact in Nepal’s Rasuwa district.

As per the preliminary reports, the Nepal-China Friendship Bridge at the Rasuwagadhi border point in Rasuwa district has been completely washed away. Moreover, the outer structures of the Rasuwagadhi Hydropower Project as well are practically demolished. In addition the dry port in Timure, which is still under-construction, suffered significant damage.

According to the reports, the EVs stored in the yard of the under-construction Timure dry port have been swept away with no way of salvaging. Many shipping containers kept at the customs yard were also washed away by the floodwaters.

The incessant rain on the northern neighboring Side of China induced the flash flood, causing this massive devastation. So far, no human casualty has been reported. However, few individuals were trapped in the flood due to the sudden impact. Nonetheless, they were rescued and a notice has been issued directing people to move to the safer areas.

The damage inflicted by the flood certainly is massive. Rescue teams have been mobilized. But the weather has not been particularly compliant so far. More information is expected as local authorities and disaster response teams carry on with their assessment and relief operations.

Rasuwagadhi is also an important crossing for the import of goods and products. With the date of festive season nearing, imports from this crossing are now bound to come at a standstill. This is projected to make a significant impact on the lives of people in the trading business as well as the state of economy of the country. Moreover, with the rising demand of the electric Vehicles (EVs), Rasuwagadhi supplied a considerable chunk of the domestic demand. However, now, the chain of demand and supply of EVs is expected to dwindle.

Due to the floods and its devastation on the border crossing, it is impossible to move across borders for now. With the trade coming to a halt in the Rasuwagadhi crossing, Tatopani crossing is now expected to become busier. Especially with the onset of festive season, it is essential for the country to maintain trades. But it seems like the festive season this year is prone to getting negatively impacted with hiked prices if the reconstruction is not completed on time.