At least 65 people are feared missing in Nepal after a devastating landslide swept away two buses into a swollen river early on Friday.
The incident, which occurred in Chitwan district, has prompted a massive rescue operation amid challenging weather conditions.
Confirming the tragedy, Chitwan's Chief District Officer Indra Dev Yadav stated that rescue teams have begun efforts to clear debris obstructing access to the site.
Detailed information about the accident is still awaited as authorities navigate the rugged terrain and persistent rainfall hampering rescue efforts.
Expressing sorrow over the incident, Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda has issued urgent directives for comprehensive search and rescue operations.
Yadav elaborated on the initial details, noting that both buses were carrying a total of 63 passengers and drivers when they were swept away around 3:30 am local time.
"Incessant rain has significantly impeded our search efforts," Yadav added from the scene, underscoring the challenging conditions faced by rescue teams in Central Nepal.
The disaster has spurred widespread anguish in Nepal, with efforts intensifying to locate any survivors amid the aftermath of the landslide.
Meanwhile, Nepal Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda expressed agony over the incident and directed authorities to search and rescue the passengers promptly.
In a post on X, Prachanda said, "I am deeply saddened by the loss of nearly five dozen passengers and the loss of property due to floods and landslides in different parts of the country when a bus was washed away by a landslide on the Narayangadh-Muglin road section. I direct all agencies of the government, including the home administration, to search and effectively rescue the passengers."
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