A 12-member Indian rescue team, equipped with advanced sonar technology, has concluded its search for two missing buses that were swept away by a landslide into the Trishuli River on July 12. Despite eight days of intensive efforts, the team was unable to locate the buses or any additional victims.
The Indian National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) joined Nepali authorities, including the Nepali Army and Armed Police, in the extensive search operation. However, even with the aid of sophisticated equipment, the whereabouts of the buses remain a mystery.
The landslide in Simaltal, Chitwan Municipality, claimed the lives of at least 20 people, with four bodies yet to be identified. Three passengers miraculously survived by jumping from the buses before they were carried away by the swift current. Tragically, the fate of the remaining 37 passengers remains unknown.
Nepal’s Disaster and Conflict Management Division has confirmed that the search will continue despite the departure of the Indian team. Authorities are exploring additional measures to locate the missing buses and bring closure to the families of the victims.
The incident has highlighted the challenges of disaster response in Nepal, particularly in remote and mountainous regions. As the monsoon season continues, the risk of landslides and floods remains high, underscoring the need for improved disaster preparedness and prevention measures.
