Water levels return to normal after sudden Bhotekoshi flood early on Sunday

RASUWA: Water levels in the Bhotekoshi have returned to normal after a sudden flood early on Sunday, but residents along the riverbanks remain shaken.

The flood struck at about 3:30 am with a 'deafening roar', chairperson of Gosainkunda Rural Municipality said, leaving people in lower-lying areas of Rasuwa and neighbouring Nuwakot anxious.

Many residents of Dhunche, who live above the riverbank, sought refuge in the upper hospital area and the local playground as the waters surged.

As the river receded, locals began to return home cautiously. Drup Prasad Adhikari, Assistant Chief District Officer and Information Officer at the District Administration Office in Rasuwa, said officials contacted Nuwakot after receiving reports to ensure appropriate precautions were in place.

A Nepal Army helicopter based in Dhunche was dispatched to assess the situation in the upper reaches of the river. Information on the full extent of any damage is still awaited.