Local Youth Honored for Heroic Rescue Efforts Following Deadly Bus Crash in Dhading

Local youth Arun Thapaliya has been honored for his courageous role in saving the lives of the injured in the bus accident that occurred in Bhaisigaunda, Benighat Rorang Rural Municipality-5, Dhading.

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority highly praised Thapaliya's contribution during a special program organized on Wednesday.

Executive Chief of the Authority, Eng. Dinesh Bhatta, honored him by draping a khada around his neck and stated that such promptness shown by citizens during a disaster is commendable. Thapaliya, a local resident of Charaundi, Benighat Rorang-5 and a rafting entrepreneur, provided significant assistance to the security personnel engaged in rescue operations by using his personal raft during the accident.

The passenger bus traveling from Pokhara to Kathmandu fell into a difficult gorge near the Trishuli River bank on the night of Falgun 11. While rescue efforts were hampered due to the midnight timing and geographical remoteness, Thapaliya mobilized his raft and helped transport 24 injured individuals to a safe location.

Nineteen people lost their lives in the accident, which occurred around 1:30 AM on Monday. Thapaliya, who reached the scene immediately after the accident, remained active throughout the night searching for and rescuing the injured in coordination with security agencies. 

The Authority noted that the participation of the local community in disaster management and the role of courageous youths like Thapaliya made it possible to save many lives.