A landslide near Simaltal on the Narayangadh-Muglin road has resulted in a critical situation. Authorities suspect that two buses may have been swept away by the landslide and plunged into the Trishuli River.
Chief District Officer of Chitwan, Indradev Yadav, arrived at the scene early this morning (around 3:30 am) and confirmed the landslide. According to his report, two buses were caught in the disaster:
- Bagmati Pradesh number 1516 Angel Deluxe bus, traveling from Birgunj towards Kathmandu
- Ganapati Deluxe bus (number not yet confirmed), traveling from Kathmandu to Gaur
Initial estimates suggest there were approximately 65 people onboard the buses, including drivers. This number includes 41 passengers believed to be on the bus headed for Gaur and 24 passengers on the Kathmandu-bound bus. However, details regarding the passengers remain unclear at this time.
The fate of both buses and their passengers is currently unknown. Chief District Officer Yadav reported that search and rescue operations are underway, with efforts being made to avoid further impact from the landslide.
District Police Office Chitwan has deployed 75 search and rescue personnel to the scene. Divers have also been dispatched to assist in the search for the buses in the Trishuli River.
This is a developing story. We will provide further information as it becomes available.
