The Ministry of Health and Population has issued emergency instructions following severe floods in the Bhotekoshi River caused by heavy rainfall, which damaged settlements, roads, bridges and other infrastructure and disrupted normal life in affected areas. The ministry said the disaster had also caused casualties and major physical losses, while districts including Rasuwa, Nuwakot, Dhading, Gorkha and Chitwan were among those facing significant impact.

Under the directive, all ministry employees and subordinate agencies have been told not to take leave except in cases of special or unavoidable necessity until disaster-management operations are completed. Officials responsible for search, rescue and treatment have been instructed to remain available by phone and other communication channels and to ensure that essential services continue without interruption.

Hospitals and health facilities have also been directed to make all necessary arrangements for the treatment of people injured by floods and landslides, including during public holidays. The ministry further called on its departments, hospitals, academies and health personnel to coordinate closely and fulfil their responsibilities in treatment, rescue and relief operations.

The instructions were issued following a high-level management meeting chaired by the health minister, as the government sought to keep the health response fully operational in disaster-hit areas and prevent service disruptions during the emergency.