At least 178 Indian nationals are among hundreds reported missing after devastating flash floods struck areas along the Bhote Koshi and Trishuli rivers in Nepal, the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) announced on Thursday morning. The floods, which caused large-scale destruction, have left local authorities racing against time to locate the unaccounted individuals.
The floods have inflicted severe damage across Rasuwa, Nuwakot, Dhading, and Gorkha districts. Infrastructure such as roads, bridges, and riverside settlements suffered significant losses, complicating rescue efforts. Preliminary estimates from trekking and travel companies indicate that around 644 travellers, including 127 Nepali nationals, remain missing. The NTB confirmed that these figures are still undergoing verification.
Among the foreign nationals reported missing, aside from the 178 Indians, there are 53 Ukrainians, 35 Australians, and 25 Canadians, adding to the concern regarding international tourists caught in the disaster. The Nepal Embassy mentioned that 175 bodies had been recovered, but many local residents and tourists still remain unaccounted for.
The ongoing search and rescue operations are challenging due to the harsh conditions and the scale of destruction. Authorities estimate that a total of 476 people from 28 countries are currently reported missing, although numbers fluctuate as more information surfaces.
The Nepalese security forces have ramped up rescue and relief operations, deploying helicopters and ground teams to assist in the operations. They are providing vital resources such as medical assistance, temporary shelters, food, drinking water, and medications to those affected by the flash floods.
Despite the devastation in Nepal, local authorities have confirmed that no adverse flood impact has been reported in Indian border areas. National Disaster Response Force Inspector General Narendra Singh Bundela assured that monitoring of water levels remains a priority in sensitive districts like Kushinagar and West Champaran.
Recognizing the humanitarian crisis, India has increased its support for flood relief efforts. The Ministry of External Affairs announced that a second flight carrying 37.5 tonnes of humanitarian assistance, including medicines and food, has already departed for the flood-affected regions of Nepal.
The Embassy of India in Nepal has established helplines for those seeking assistance: +977 985 131 6807, +977 970 910 7500, and +977 981 032 6117, with availability on WhatsApp to better serve those in distress.
As rescue operations continue, both Nepal and India are on alert, working collaboratively to manage the fallout from this natural disaster. Local authorities encourage families with missing persons to contact the embassy and aid agencies for support.
