Search and rescue efforts are ongoing in Nepal as authorities look for two buses that were swept away by a landslide near the Trishuli river. The incident occurred on Friday, with more than 50 people on board the buses at the time.
Despite continuous rainfall in the region, search teams have been working tirelessly to locate the missing buses and passengers. The swollen Trishuli river has posed challenges, but improved weather conditions on Saturday have allowed searchers to cover more ground.
Heavy equipment has been deployed to clear landslides from the highway, facilitating access for search teams. Soldiers and police are utilizing rubber rafts, divers, and sensor equipment in their search efforts.
Three individuals were ejected from the buses during the incident and are currently receiving medical treatment. However, the fate of the remaining passengers remains unknown as the buses are believed to be submerged and carried downstream by the fast-flowing river.
The buses were traveling on a crucial highway linking Nepal's capital to the southern regions when the landslide occurred. Another bus was also affected by a separate landslide nearby, resulting in the driver's death.
Monsoon season in Nepal, which lasts from June to September, brings heavy rains and often triggers landslides in the mountainous terrain. In response to the challenging weather conditions, the government has imposed restrictions on night-time travel for passenger buses in areas with weather warnings.
The search operation continues as authorities remain committed to locating the missing buses and passengers amidst the difficult conditions caused by the monsoon season.
