A passenger bus heading west was swept away by floodwaters at Binayi Khola in Nawalparasi late last night, after continuous rainfall caused the stream to overflow. The dramatic incident occurred while the bus was carrying around 40 passengers, all of whom were rescued safely thanks to a swift police response.
According to DSP Madhu Nepal, although all passengers survived without major injuries, the bus remains untraced. A search is still ongoing. The flood was part of widespread monsoon activity affecting multiple districts in Nepal.
The Incident: A Night of Rising Water and Rising Fear
The bus was traveling west on the East-West Highway during heavy monsoon rains. Around midnight, as it attempted to cross Binayi Khola, the river had already swollen dangerously due to hours of rainfall. The powerful stream swept the bus off the road in seconds.
Panic set in as water rushed into the vehicle. Some passengers climbed onto seats; others screamed for help. Fortunately, the bus was stuck on a rocky edge and did not completely submerge. Local residents nearby called for help immediately.
Quick Response Saves Lives
Thanks to the immediate action of the Nepal Police, all 40 passengers were safely brought to shore. Emergency teams arrived within minutes, using ropes, life jackets, and flashlights to guide people through the dangerous current.
“We were able to rescue every single passenger,” said DSP Madhu Nepal, speaking to reporters at the site. “Our priority was saving lives. However, the bus itself was carried further downstream, and our search teams are working to locate it.”
Rescue efforts were supported by local volunteers and residents who rushed to the scene despite the pouring rain.
Ignored Flood Warnings Led to Danger
The District Administration Office had issued multiple warnings earlier in the day, urging travelers and transport companies to avoid routes like Binayi Khola, where water levels were rising.
Unfortunately, some bus operators ignored these alerts, continuing their journey despite the risks.
“This incident could have been prevented,” said an official from the Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority. “We clearly communicated the danger. It's critical for everyone to listen to official warnings, especially during the monsoon.”
Passengers Recall Terrifying Moments
“I thought we were all going to die,” said Gita Sharma, a 26-year-old passenger. “The water came so fast. We were trapped inside. Then the police came and saved us. I will never forget it.”
Another survivor, Bikash Thapa, thanked the driver and conductor for staying calm. “They helped the women and children first. Then the police helped us cross the water using ropes. Everyone worked together.”
Many of the rescued passengers spent the night in a nearby school building and were provided food and dry clothes by local volunteers and Red Cross workers.
Search for the Missing Bus Continues
As of this morning, the bus remains missing. Authorities believe it may have been swept far downstream or buried under mud and debris.
Teams from the Nepal Police, Armed Police Force (APF), and local disaster units are using drones, rescue boats, and divers to locate the vehicle.
“We will not stop until we find the bus,” said DSP Nepal. “It is important to know what happened, and also to ensure the area is safe.”
More Rain Expected — Public Urged to Stay Alert
The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology has forecast more heavy rainfall over the next few days in many parts of Nepal, including Nawalparasi, Chitwan, and Rupandehi.
Citizens are strongly advised to:
Avoid rivers, streams, and landslide-prone roads
Listen to local FM radio or official social media for updates
Call emergency numbers immediately in case of any danger
Important Emergency Numbers for the Public
In light of recent events and ongoing weather conditions, everyone is encouraged to save and share these emergency numbers:
📞 Disaster Emergency Helpline: 1149
📞 Flood & Landslide Helpline: 1141
📞 Flood & Landslide Infoline: 1155
📞 Armed Police Force (APF) Support: 1114
📞 Nepal Red Cross Hotline: 1130
These lines are open 24/7 to assist in rescue, relief, and emergency support. Immediate action can save lives.
A Close Call, a Hard Lesson
What happened at Binayi Khola could have been a tragedy. Thankfully, due to the heroic efforts of the police and locals, no lives were lost. But the incident is a powerful reminder that nature must be respected, especially during Nepal’s unpredictable monsoon season.
As the search for the missing bus continues, authorities are doubling down on preparedness and communication. Meanwhile, citizens are urged to travel responsibly, stay informed, and always put safety first.
Comments
0