MYAGDI, July 9: A landslide from the hills of Bansbot in Dhaulagiri Rural Municipality–4 has blocked the Myagdi River, forming a temporary dam and posing a risk of flash flooding downstream.
According to Dhaulagiri Rural Municipality Vice Chairperson Resham Pun Magar, the landslide debris has created a lake in the river. He added that the area is still experiencing continuous landslides.
The blockage occurred below the hill of Kausibot, on the border of wards 4 and 7. Local resident Tam Pun of nearby Chhahari village said that although the river level had risen in the morning due to heavy rainfall, it decreased after the landslide blocked its flow.
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In response, authorities have urged residents of riverside settlements to remain alert. Settlements at risk include Chhahari, Kalleni, Bharwang, Sawata, Thapachaur, Darwang, Chhiswang, Khopti, Pipalbot, Babiyachaur, Torakhet, Simalchaur, Tatopani, Singa, and Beni Bazaar—all located along the Myagdi River.
Chairperson Prem Prasad Pun, Vice Chairperson Resham Pun Magar, elected officials, and a security team from the Takam Police Post have headed to the site. Chairperson Pun stated that the extent of the temporary lake would be clear only after reaching the location.
He warned that if the blockage bursts suddenly, it could cause flash floods and erosion in the downstream areas. The local administration has been requested to issue alerts through the district office.
Originating from the Dhaulagiri Himal, the Myagdi River flows through Beni Bazaar and merges into the Kaligandaki River.
