Hundreds of Students Saved by School Principal's Decision During Flood Disaster in Nepal
During the devastating flood disaster in Nepal, a school principal's quick evacuation decision ensured the lives of at least 900 students were saved.
In the devastating flash flood that struck Nepal's Trishuli Valley, at least 900 students were evacuated to safety and saved thanks to the quick decision of Tribhuvan Trishuli Secondary School Principal Rajendra Dawadi.
Flood Danger and Quick Evacuation Decision
Upon warnings that floodwaters were advancing rapidly in Nepal's Trishuli Valley, school principal Rajendra Dawadi immediately took action. Ringing the school bell before the danger was fully confirmed, the principal ensured that all students and staff left the building and headed for higher ground.
Transportation and Rerouting of Buses
Principal Dawadi called bus drivers who were on their way to the campus and told them to turn back. Shortly after a bus full of students crossed the new bridge, the old bridge next to it collapsed.
Scale of Destruction and Casualties
Climbing to a safe hill, Dawadi watched his school, where he was once a student and taught for years, get buried under water, mud, and rocks. Two staff members, however, were unable to escape with the group and went missing.
Impacts on Education
According to Save the Children data, at least 69 schools were destroyed in northern Nepal, affecting approximately 19,000 students. Thousands of children were left without classrooms, and the disaster could cause a months-long suspension of education.
Future Plans and Call for Reconstruction
Stating that students will primarily need counseling, Dawadi emphasized that classes must resume even if the school is temporarily relocated. He demanded that the government rebuild the schools.