Landslide-Formed Dam Bursts in Gorkha, Five Sheepfolds Swept Away; Occupants Missing

A landslide-induced dam that blocked the Uingulung stream in Gorkha district appears to have burst, triggering a sudden surge of water into the Budhi Gandaki River and contributing to the severe flooding in the region. Security personnel who reached the affected area reported that the stream had initially been obstructed by a landslide before the blockage gave way and the accumulated water flowed into the Budhi Gandaki. A police team led by Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) Giru Poudel, deployed from Chuntchet Police Post, reached the reported blockage site near the foothills of Siringe Himal, around Lokpa and Chumling in Ward No. 6 of Chumnubri Rural Municipality. According to an official from the District Police Office in Gorkha, the team observed landslide activity across an area extending approximately one kilometre around Siringe Himal. The flooding reportedly occurred after the landslide blocked the Uingulung stream, causing water to accumulate before the natural barrier burst. The sudden release of water contributed to the surge in the Budhi Gandaki River, posing a serious threat to nearby settlements and infrastructure. Five sheepfolds situated at the foot of Siringe Himal were reportedly swept away by the floodwaters. The people who had been staying in the structures remain out of contact, raising concerns about their safety. Security forces, including the Nepal Army, Nepal Police, and Armed Police Force personnel, have been mobilized to search for the missing individuals and assist with rescue operations. Authorities have confirmed that 47 people have been rescued from the affected area so far. Search and rescue efforts are continuing as teams work to locate those who remain unaccounted for and assess the extent of the damage. The incident highlights the serious risks posed by landslides that temporarily block mountain streams, as the sudden failure of such natural barriers can release large volumes of water downstream with little warning. Residents in vulnerable areas along the Budhi Gandaki River are urged to remain alert, avoid riverbanks, and follow instructions issued by local authorities and security personnel.