Udayapur, August 5, 2025
Continuous rainfall over the past three days has significantly increased the water level in the Saptakoshi River, placing the Belaka region of Udayapur district under high flood risk. Several settlements in wards 2, 3, 6, 8, and 9 of Belaka Municipality-situated close to the river-are now facing severe threats of inundation and riverbank erosion.
Deputy Mayor of Belaka Municipality, Jira Rai, confirmed that rising water levels in the Saptakoshi have begun to erode riverbanks in multiple areas. “The pressure from the swollen river is threatening nearby villages,” she said, expressing concern over the increasing vulnerability of these communities.
In response, Chief District Officer (CDO) Prem Prasad Luintel, accompanied by a team of security personnel, conducted an on-site inspection of the erosion-prone zones. According to the District Administration Office, CDO Luintel has called on local residents to remain alert and prepare for potential emergencies. “We have assessed the situation closely and are encouraging precautionary measures to minimize risks,” he stated.
The situation has become particularly alarming in areas such as Kothu, Dumribot, and Sisauli, where the river has started to breach its natural banks. Local authorities have issued warnings urging people in these areas to be on high alert.
Superintendent of Police (SP) Hariharnath Yogi confirmed that the District Police Office, in coordination with other security agencies, has launched full-scale preparedness plans. The Nepali Army, Nepal Police, and Armed Police Force have been placed on standby for possible rescue and relief operations.
Mayor Ashok Karki informed that a coordinated team of local representatives, district administration officials, and security personnel has already initiated early response and preparedness efforts on the ground.
As climate-related events continue to intensify across Nepal, experts emphasize the importance of strengthening disaster preparedness, early warning systems, and sustainable river management in vulnerable regions like Belaka. The current situation in Udayapur serves as another reminder of the growing urgency for climate resilience in flood-prone communities.
