KATHMANDU: Flooding in the Budhi Gandaki river system has damaged trekking trails, a suspension bridge and other infrastructure in Chumanubri Rural Municipality of Gorkha district, while the condition of at least five herders in the affected area remains unknown, according to preliminary information.

Local officials said the flood originated in Wingling Khola, passed through Shyar Khola and entered the Budhi Gandaki River.

In Nakchet, an old suspension bridge connecting the settlement with Philim was swept away by the flood.

Preliminary assessments also indicate that the camp site of the Sallery Hydropower Project and nearby houses were completely washed away. Jagat Bagar was among the areas affected.

Several trekking routes in the Manaslu region have also sustained damage.

According to local authorities, the trail between Yaru Bagar and Jagat has been swept away, while the route to Chum Valley above Lokpa has been blocked. Trails leading to Jagat and through the Sallery area have also been damaged.

At least five herders were reportedly in the Wingling Khola area, where livestock are kept in seasonal sheds. Authorities said they had not been able to establish contact with them and their condition remains unknown.

No human casualties had been confirmed at the time of the preliminary assessment.

The Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) checkpoint at Jagat was not affected by the flooding. Officials said tourists, local residents and staff stationed there were safe.

Authorities said on-site inspections and search operations are needed to determine the full extent of the damage and assess risks to residents, herders and trekking routes.

Officials cautioned that the information remains preliminary and may change as detailed assessments are carried out in the affected areas.

The flooding has disrupted infrastructure and trekking access in parts of the Manaslu region, with authorities continuing assessments and search efforts in affected communities.