Principal Evacuates 900 Students Before Flooding in Nepal

Rajendra Dawadi, the principal of Tribhuvan Trishuli Secondary School in Bidur, Nepal, evacuated approximately 900 students as floodwaters surged through the Trishuli Valley. The evacuation was prompted by warnings of rising floodwaters, which ultimately resulted from a glacial collapse in the Himalayas. Dawadi rang the school bell and directed students and staff to higher ground, witnessing the destruction of the school as he followed them. The floods have caused significant devastation across Nepal, resulting in over 900 fatalities and leaving more than 4,700 individuals missing. Dawadi's actions are seen as a demonstration of foresight and courage, as he managed to prevent further loss of life among the students. The school had a total enrollment of 1,643 students, with many still on their way to school when the evacuation occurred. Dawadi's quick decision also prevented a bus filled with students from reaching the school just before a nearby bridge collapsed. The floods have disrupted education for thousands of children, with at least 69 schools completely destroyed, affecting nearly 19,000 students, according to the charity group Save the Children. Dawadi expressed the need for psychological counseling for the students and called on the Nepalese government to prioritize the rebuilding of schools to resume education. Parents have shown gratitude towards Dawadi for his actions during the crisis.