Bus Crash in Nepal: 19 Dead in Trishuli River Tragedy

A devastating bus accident in Nepal has claimed at least 19 lives and injured 25 others after a packed passenger bus plunged into the Trishuli River early Monday morning, February 23, 2026. The tragedy occurred on the treacherous Prithvi Highway approximately 80 kilometers west of Kathmandu, highlighting the ongoing road safety crisis in the Himalayan nation.

What Happened in the Nepal Bus Crash?

The ill-fated bus was traveling from Pokhara to Nepal's capital Kathmandu when it veered off the mountain road around 1:30 AM local time. According to police reports, the vehicle rolled approximately 200-300 meters down a steep slope before landing in the fast-flowing Trishuli River near Benighat in Dhading district. The bus was carrying 44 passengers at the time of the accident, with rescue operations hampered by nighttime conditions and difficult terrain.

'Rescue operations involving Nepal Army, Armed Police Force, and Nepal Police personnel were completed by dawn,' said senior police officer Prakash Dahal. 'We recovered 19 bodies from the scene and transported 25 injured passengers to hospitals for treatment.'

International Victims and Rescue Efforts

Foreign Tourists Among Casualties

The tragedy has international implications, with tourists from several countries among the victims. A 24-year-old British national was confirmed dead, while a New Zealander and a Chinese national were among those injured. Local authorities reported that nine bodies have been identified so far, with identification efforts continuing for the remaining victims.

Challenging Rescue Operation

Rescue teams faced significant challenges due to the remote location, nighttime conditions, and the bus's position in the river. The multi-agency response included Nepali Army, Armed Police Force, Nepal Police, and local residents working together in difficult conditions. Similar to the 2024 Nepal bus disaster, this latest tragedy underscores the persistent dangers of mountain transportation in the region.

Why Are Nepal's Roads So Dangerous?

Infrastructure and Vehicle Issues

Nepal's road safety crisis stems from multiple factors including poorly maintained mountain roads, aging vehicles, and challenging terrain dominated by the Himalayas. The country has seen a dramatic increase in road accidents, rising from 4,999 incidents a decade ago to 7,669 in the 2024-25 fiscal year alone, resulting in 190 deaths.

'This is not an isolated incident but part of a systemic problem,' explained transportation safety expert Dr. Anil Sharma. 'Nepal's mountainous terrain combined with inadequate infrastructure and vehicle maintenance creates perfect conditions for such tragedies.'

Economic Impact of Road Accidents

According to World Bank studies, road traffic injuries cost Nepal approximately 1.5% of its gross national product annually. Vulnerable road users—including bus passengers, motorcyclists, and pedestrians—comprise over 70% of fatalities, highlighting the disproportionate impact on ordinary citizens.

Historical Context: Previous Trishuli River Tragedies

This is not the first major accident on this dangerous stretch of road. In 2024, two buses carrying 65 people plunged into the same Trishuli River after being caught in a landslide. Most passengers were killed or remain missing to this day, with one bus wreckage only discovered earlier this year, deeply buried in river sediment.

The recurring nature of these accidents has sparked calls for improved mountain road safety measures and better vehicle regulations. Unlike developed transportation systems, Nepal's infrastructure struggles to keep pace with growing traffic volumes and tourism demands.

What's Being Done About Nepal's Road Safety Crisis?

Government Response and Investigations

Nepalese authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the latest crash. While initial reports suggest the bus may have been traveling in its lane, police are examining factors including possible overspeeding, mechanical failure, and driver error. The government faces increasing pressure to implement comprehensive road safety reforms.

International Assistance and Recommendations

International organizations including the World Health Organization and World Bank have recommended several measures to improve Nepal's road safety:

1. Improved road design and maintenance standards
2. Stricter vehicle inspection and maintenance requirements
3. Enhanced driver training and licensing standards
4. Better emergency response systems in remote areas
5. Public awareness campaigns about mountain road dangers

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How many people died in the Nepal bus crash?

At least 19 people were killed in the February 23, 2026 bus accident, with 25 others injured.

Where did the Nepal bus accident occur?

The crash happened on the Prithvi Highway near Benighat, approximately 80 kilometers west of Kathmandu, where the bus plunged into the Trishuli River.

Were there foreign tourists on the bus?

Yes, a British national was killed, while New Zealand and Chinese tourists were among the injured passengers.

What causes so many bus accidents in Nepal?

Poor road conditions in mountainous terrain, aging vehicles, inadequate maintenance, and challenging driving conditions contribute to frequent accidents.

How does this compare to previous Nepal bus tragedies?

This follows a similar 2024 incident where two buses with 65 people fell into the same river, with most passengers killed or still missing.

Sources

Kathmandu Post Report, WION News Coverage, Mathrubhumi English Report, New Indian Express Coverage