World

Principal who saved 900 students recalls Nepal’s devastating flood

Al Jazeera · 2026-08-31

AI SUMMARY

• What happened: Principal Rajendra Dawadi evacuated over 900 students from his school during devastating floods in Nepal, which have resulted in over 900 deaths and nearly 5,000 people missing. • Why it matters: The floods represent one of the worst natural disasters in Nepal's history, severely impacting communities and infrastructure, and highlighting the importance of preparedness and community support in crisis situations. • What to watch next: Recovery efforts are underway, focusing on locating missing individuals and providing aid to affected families, while the community begins to rebuild and reflect on the resilience demonstrated during the disaster.

**Title: Principal Who Saved 900 Students Recalls Nepal’s Devastating Flood**

In a harrowing account of survival and bravery, Rajendra Dawadi, the principal of a school in Nepal, has shared his experience during the catastrophic floods that recently struck the region. The floods, which have claimed the lives of over 900 individuals, have left nearly 5,000 people unaccounted for, marking one of the most devastating natural disasters in the country’s history.

On the day of the floods, Dawadi was faced with an unimaginable challenge: evacuating more than 900 students from his school as rising waters threatened their safety. With little time to spare, he and his staff sprang into action, prioritizing the safety of the children. "We had to act quickly. The water was rising fast, and we knew we had to get everyone to safety," Dawadi recounted.

The evacuation process was chaotic but executed with a sense of urgency and determination. Teachers and staff worked together to ensure that every student was accounted for and safely transported to higher ground. Dawadi described the panic and fear that enveloped the school as students and staff rushed to escape the impending floodwaters.

As the evacuation unfolded, Dawadi watched helplessly as his school succumbed to the relentless surge of water. "It was heartbreaking to see the place where we nurtured so many young minds disappear beneath the flood," he said. The emotional toll of witnessing the destruction was profound, but the principal found solace in the fact that all of his students were safely evacuated.

The floods have had a devastating impact on the region, with entire communities affected and infrastructure severely damaged. In addition to the loss of life, the disaster has disrupted countless families and left many without homes or resources. The local government and various humanitarian organizations are mobilizing to provide aid and support to those affected by the floods.

Dawadi's story is a testament to the resilience of individuals in the face of disaster. His quick thinking and leadership not only saved the lives of his students but also inspired others in the community to come together and support one another during this challenging time. "In times of crisis, we must unite and help each other," he emphasized.

As the recovery efforts continue, the focus remains on locating those who are still missing and providing assistance to the families who have lost loved ones. The scale of the disaster has prompted national and international responses, with aid pouring in to help those in need.

The floods in Nepal serve as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of communities to natural disasters and the importance of preparedness and response strategies. Dawadi's experience highlights the critical role that educators and community leaders play in safeguarding the lives of the younger generation.

In the aftermath of the floods, the community is beginning to rebuild, but the scars of the disaster will take time to heal. Dawadi remains committed to his role as an educator and leader, determined to help his students and community recover from this tragedy. "We will rebuild, and we will ensure that our students have a safe place to learn and grow," he stated with resolve.

As Nepal grapples with the consequences of this disaster, the stories of survival and heroism, like that of Principal Rajendra Dawadi, will continue to inspire hope and resilience in the face of adversity.

Source: Al Jazeera
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