At least 178 Indian nationals are among hundreds missing in the aftermath of devastating flash floods that struck various regions along the Bhote Koshi and Trishuli rivers in Nepal. This alarming update comes from the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) on Thursday, highlighting the urgent need for rescue operations and humanitarian assistance.
The floods have wreaked havoc across the Rasuwa, Nuwakot, Dhading, and Gorkha districts, damaging infrastructure, including roads and bridges, and displacing riverside settlements. Preliminary records from trekking and travel companies indicate that 644 individuals are unaccounted for, comprising 127 Nepalis along with international tourists.
Among those reported missing are 53 Ukrainians, 35 Australians, and 25 Canadians, in addition to citizens from other nations. The NTB is currently verifying this information in coordination with travel agencies and local authorities to obtain an accurate count of the missing individuals.
As of now, sources within the Nepal Embassy report that recovery efforts have yielded 175 bodies so far, yet a significant number of tourists and local residents remain untraceable. The total missing count stands at 476 individuals from 28 different countries, a figure that remains under constant reassessment as search and rescue operations progress.
The numbers reported by various agencies are provisional, as authorities are continuously receiving updated information from the flood-affected regions. Rescuers, including Nepal’s security forces, have intensified their operations, deploying helicopters and ground personnel to assist in the challenging recovery environment.
Medical supplies, temporary shelters, food, clean drinking water, and essential medicines are being distributed to those impacted by the floods. Assistance programs are vital as floodwaters continue to pose risks to public safety.
No adverse flood impact has been reported in Indian border areas following the flash floods in Nepal, according to an update from National Disaster Response Force Inspector General Narendra Singh Bundela. He confirmed that authorities are closely monitoring water discharge levels in sensitive districts such as Kushinagar and West Champaran, with both state governments and the Central Water Commission remaining on high alert.
In response to the disaster, India has ramped up its aid efforts, dispatching humanitarian assistance to assist flood victims. The Ministry of External Affairs announced that a second flight carrying 37.5 tonnes of relief materials, including medicines and food packets, has departed for Nepal.
The Embassy of India in Nepal has set up helpline numbers for families seeking information regarding their loved ones: +977 985 131 6807, +977 970 910 7500, and +977 981 032 6117. These contacts will also be available on WhatsApp to facilitate immediate communication.
With rescue missions undergo continuous operations, the focus remains on locating the missing individuals and providing essential support to the flood-affected populace.
