By Maj Udai Gurung
COLCHESTER, UK – The Colchester Nepalese Society is set to host a solemn candlelit vigil to honor the victims of the devastating flash flood in Rasuwa. The memorial event will take place on Saturday, 26 September 2026, from 5:50 pm to 8:00 pm at the Castle Methodist Church.
The community gathering comes in the wake of the tragic glacial lake outburst flood on 26 August 2026, which struck the Bhote Koshi valley in the Rasuwa district. The disaster severely impacted border settlements, including Timure and the Rasuwagadhi crossing, sweeping away homes, bridges, and roads.
Event Programme Highlights:
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5:50 pm: Congregation assembles at Castle Methodist Church.
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6:00 pm: Welcome address by Major (Retd) Udaibahadur Gurung MBE, Chairman and Trustee of the Colchester Nepalese Society.
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6:03 pm: Musical tributes and solemn performances by the Wimbish Military Wives Choirs and Mrs. Dinesh Thapa.
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6:15 pm: Lighting of candles by the Mayor of Colchester, Cllr Andrew Ellis (193rd Mayor of Colchester), and Major (Retd) Udaibahadur Gurung MBE, followed by remarks from the Mayor.
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6:23 pm: Continued musical tributes accompanied by a photo display illustrating the severe devastation in the Bhote Koshi valley.
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7:00 pm: Community supper provided by Yak & Yeti Restaurant, with refreshments courtesy of the Colchester Nepalese Society.
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8:00 pm: Conclusion of the vigil.
A donation box will be placed by the candlelit memorial throughout the service for attendees wishing to contribute. The Colchester Nepalese Society invites community members, local leaders, and friends to gather in solidarity, remember those lost, and support relief efforts.
