Narayani River Floods Cause Significant Damage in Narayangadh

Chitwan. Continuous rainfall has caused significant damage to the Narayani River bank in Narayangadh. The area, protected with crores of rupees, has been devastated by the flood. The site where the Chitwan festival is held is now only visible with stones and soil, with the river having caused severe erosion in many places. Although the 'C-beach' model structure saved some from further damage, the entire riverbank area has become like ruins. When the floodwaters entered suddenly, residents and traders on the bank could not even move their goods from their homes and shops. After the floodwaters receded, locals are now busy cleaning and moving their belongings. Locals have expressed concern that if the river's erosion continues to increase, Narayangadh market itself could be at risk. According to Prabhatkumar Joshi, who has been living in Narayangadh since 1962, the government must immediately pay special attention to the protection of the Narayani riverbank. He warned that if the river is not properly protected and settlements are expanded along the bank, disregarding nature, the future of Narayangadh market will be in danger. In the current situation, instead of temporarily filling with soil and gravel, there is a need to advance long-term and scientific conservation work by considering the river's flow and erosion patterns.

Photo: Rajendra Acharya/Nepal Photo Library