PARBAT, Aug 3 : Continuous rainfall in the hilly districts of Mustang, Myagdi, Baglung and Parbat has caused the water level in the Kaligandaki River to rise to its highest point this year, officials said Sunday.
According to gauger Krishna Prasad Subedi, the river reached a height of 6.40 meters in the morning – the highest measurement recorded in 2025. The peak flow was recorded at 7.40 meters. With rainfall subsiding, the water level is expected to gradually recede.
The swelling river has posed a threat to communities along its banks. Settlements in Bagarphant, Waribeni, Milanchowk, Lasti, and Khaniyaghat in Jaljala Rural Municipality; Maldhunga, Nayapul, and Modibeni in Kushma Municipality; Jaiminighat in Phalebas Municipality; and Setibeni Bazaar in Bihadi Rural Municipality are at high risk of flooding.
Respite for locals as blocked Kaligandaki River overflows
The world’s largest Shaligram stone, located at the tri-junction of Parbat, Syangja and Gulmi districts, has also been submerged. Priests and caretakers of the sacred site have expressed concern over the rising water level.
“All structures in the Shaligram area, including resting shelters and retaining walls, have been submerged,” said Tilak Parajuli. He added that gabion walls and embankments constructed for the protection of the Shaligram stone have been buried under water, causing extensive damage to the pilgrimage infrastructure.
The flood threat in Setibeni Bazaar has been exacerbated by the release of water from the dam gates of the Kaligandaki ‘A’ Hydropower Project, which lie at the confluence of Parbat, Syangja, and Gulmi. Authorities said all dam gates have now been opened to reduce pressure.
Nearly 200 traders and residents in the surrounding market areas of Parbat and Syangja have been affected by the situation. Sixteen years ago, around three dozen households were displaced when the Kaligandaki and Setikhola rivers flooded the region.
“The memory of the 7 October 2009 flood still haunts locals,” said local businessman Bishnu Neupane. While the Shaligram stone is currently submerged, the marketplace itself remains safe for now, he said.
