Nepal Storm Report

While we do have challenging conditions and damage to report, caused by flooding and landslides in Nepal in September, it is comforting to know that everyone in the Thrangu Community is safe. Although the rainy season had already ended, a low pressure system in the Bay of Bengal brought two days of incessant rain. In 48 hours, the Kathmandu Valley received half of their annual rainfall and some stations in Nepal recorded the highest 24-hour rainfall in decades.

Thankfully, Thrangu Tara Abbey, SMD and the mountain monasteries are all unharmed. Sekhar Retreat center has reported minor damage that they feel will be quickly repaired. It is Thrangu Tashi Yangtse Monastery in Namo Buddha that has been hit very hard.

The floods and landslides have made it impossible to travel the roads between Namo Buddha, Dhulikhel and Panauti. The entrances to the monastery and the clinic are blocked, some retaining walls have collapsed, roads damaged and rooms are filled with mud.

Khenpo Chonyi, manager of Namo Buddha, reported that immediately, the monks, including all the Khenpos, met to assess the situation, dividing into several teams to manage a variety of issues:

1. Drinking water - check and determine clear water sources.

2. Attend to the landslide in front of the main temple, determine how to provide protection.

3. Electricity - poles are damaged and local power is intermittent, they are using generator when needed.

4. Attend to clearing the roads - since the only two ways in and out are blocked all is currently being done on foot and by hand. Anything needed for rescue, teh monks are carrying on their backs.

5. Other teams are clearing mud from inside the rooms of Blocks A, B and C.

6. Clinic monks are providing first aid as is needed.

The monks are working continuously to clear the mud and debris and now, with the arrival of a bulldozer, the monks are working together with the Nepali Army and Police to cut downed trees and clear the public roads.

We will keep you updated as to the extent of damage and repairs as they are known and what assistance maybe needed.