BUTWAL, July 22: The torrential downpour continuing since last night has engorged various rivers and tributaries in Rupendehi with floodwater streaming into the rural settlements.
Huge swathes of recently cultivated fields have been overwhelmed with rainwater and flooding as the rain continues to beat down. At least 16 houses were submerged partially when Rohini river located at the district's southernmost tip broke its course to enter Patkhauli VDC – 5.
In Basantapur, the Rohini river inundated at least 6 houses. Seven locals were forced to spend the night on the branches of a tree to save their lives. The police arrived at the scene to rescue them with inflatable tubes, District Police Office's Spokesperson and Deputy Superintendent of Police, Rameshwor Karki said.
The flood has swept away domestic cattle and clothes. The police are working to relocate the villagers to safer areas away from the danger of the swollen rivers.
The river has also wreaked havoc in Siktahan VDC by drowning domestic cattle belonging to seven households and also scooping up agricultural tools, said Prakash Khanal of the Community Agro Depot Centre.
Meanwhile, landslides have obstructed transportation along Butwal – Palpa road section under the Siddhartha Highway.
Boulders have come crashing down on the Jhumsa and Siddhababa area of the road obstructing vehicular movement, Area Police Office, Butwal said. RSS