MANANG: Efforts are underway to drain a lake formed after the Marsyangdi River was blocked by mud, sand, rocks and pebbles deposited by the swollen Ghattekhola stream following incessant rainfall.
Although the Marsyangdi River has begun flowing on both sides of a bridge after changing its course, the river remains partially blocked, according to Krishna Prasad Poudel, assistant chief district officer and information officer of Manang.
“Efforts are underway to release water from the lake formed following the blockage of the Marsyangdi River. Excavators are being used for the operation, while a Nepali Army helicopter has been transporting fuel required to operate the excavators,” Poudel said.
The efforts are being carried out in coordination among the local, provincial and federal governments in consultation with technical experts.
Lokendra Bahadur Ghale, chairperson of Chame Rural Municipality, said various equipment, including excavators available with local governments, were being used to release water from the lake after assessing the water flow and potential risks.
Several houses in the surrounding area have been inundated after the river changed its course. Floods and landslides have also completely disrupted electricity and drinking water supplies, as well as telephone, internet and road services.
Meanwhile, local residents have been facing difficulties travelling after floodwaters from the Marsyangdi River swept away a bridge connecting wards 8 and 9 of Naso Rural Municipality.
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