422 Disaster Incidents in Just 12 Days of Baisakh: Fire and Wildfire Top the List, 23 Dead, 73 Injured

Kathmandu — A total of 422 disaster incidents have occurred across the country since the start of the month of Baisakh, resulting in the deaths of 23 people and leaving 73 others injured.

According to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA), 217 incidents of fire were recorded in the period from Baisakh 1 to 12 — the highest among all disaster types. Other recorded incidents include 114 wildfires, 20 snakebites, 16 animal attacks, 29 windstorms, 14 lightning strikes, and three cases of high-altitude sickness. One incident of a boat capsizing was also reported, while two incidents each of landslides, heavy rainfall, floods, and hailstorms were documented, the authority informed.

The NDRRMA further stated that in the 24-hour period from the morning of Baisakh 11 to the morning of Baisakh 12 alone, 32 disaster incidents were recorded. A total of 27 districts have been affected by disasters during this period. These figures indicate a sharp rise in disaster risk with the onset of Baisakh.