Nepal Flood Alert: Landslide Blocks Chaulani River in Darchula, Fresh Threat Emerges

A massive landslide in Nepal’s Darchula district has partially blocked the Chaulani River, raising fears of sudden flooding in downstream areas and prompting authorities to issue an alert to nearby communities.

The landslide occurred in Bhattar of Api Himal Rural Municipality, sending a large volume of debris into the river and restricting its flow. Officials have warned that further landslides could completely obstruct the waterway, potentially triggering a sudden breach and flash floods downstream.

People living along the riverbanks have been urged to remain vigilant and take precautionary measures. Security personnel have been deployed in vulnerable areas to alert residents and respond quickly if the situation deteriorates.

Sudurpaschim Chief Minister Khagraj Bhatta has directed local officials and security agencies to maintain heightened vigilance and prepare for any emergency. Authorities have also issued emergency contact numbers for residents seeking assistance during flood or disaster situations.

The Armed Police Force said the Chaulani River was still flowing at a normal level. However, personnel from the Nepal Chameliya Hydropower Security Base in Balanch have been mobilised to monitor the river and alert communities if conditions change.

The Chaulani River, also known as the Chamelia, originates in the Api Himal region and eventually joins the Mahakali River, which forms part of the Nepal-India border.

The latest warning comes as Nepal continues to recover from severe flooding and flash floods that have affected several parts of the country. Recent disasters have caused deaths, displaced residents and damaged infrastructure, with rescue and recovery efforts still underway.

With the region remaining vulnerable to landslides and heavy rainfall, officials are concerned that further rain could worsen the river blockage and trigger a potentially dangerous flash flood downstream.