Pulchowk Campus Students Design Autonomous Boat That Maps Rivers and Detects Underwater Objects for Disaster Rescue Operations

Kathmandu. In the aftermath of recurring flood and landslide disasters in Nepal, including the 12 July 2024 Simaltal tragedy in Chitwan, where two passenger buses went missing in the Trishuli River with 62 passengers on board, a group of engineering students from Pulchowk Campus has developed an unmanned boat designed to support search and rescue operations and disaster management.

The Simaltal tragedy, where several passengers remain missing despite weeks of search efforts involving divers and assistance from India, highlights the growing need for advanced technological tools in Nepal’s disaster response systems, according to experts.