Landslide blocks Chaulani River in Nepal's Darchula district, flood risk rises

A massive landslide has partially blocked the Chaulani River in Nepal’s Darchula district, prompting authorities to place downstream communities on alert amid fears that continued debris could choke the river and trigger sudden flooding. The landslide occurred at Bhattar in Api Himal Rural Municipality, with debris spilling into the river and affecting its flow. The district administration office, Darchula, warned that further landslides could completely block the river, raising the risk of a sudden breach and flash floods downstream. Authorities have urged people living along the riverbanks to remain vigilant and take precautionary measures. Security personnel have been deployed to warn residents and remain on standby for emergency response. Sudurpaschim Chief Minister Khagraj Bhatta also directed local authorities and security agencies to maintain high alert and prepare for any emergency. The administration has issued emergency contact numbers for flood and disaster assistance. The Armed Police Force said the river was flowing at a normal level for now, but personnel from the Nepal Chameliya Hydropower Security Base in Balanch had been mobilised to monitor the situation and alert nearby communities. The Chaulani, 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 warning comes as Nepal is still dealing with the impact of severe flooding and flash floods in several areas, with rescue and recovery efforts continuing after recent floods left communities displaced and caused deaths and extensive damage. The latest river blockage has added to concerns that further heavy rain could turn an already unstable situation into another flash-flood emergency.