At least 178 Indian nationals are among the hundreds reported missing after devastating flash floods struck Nepal on Thursday. The floods heavily impacted areas along the Bhote Koshi and Trishuli rivers, prompting a response from the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB).
The NTB revealed that preliminary records from trekking and travel companies indicated a total of 644 travelers missing, including 127 Nepali nationals. These numbers are still undergoing verification and cross-checking with travel agencies, guides, local authorities, and security agencies.
Among those missing are 178 Indians, along with citizens from various other countries, including 53 Ukrainians, 35 Australians, and 25 Canadians. Authorities remain engaged in searches to locate these individuals.
Separately, sources within the Nepal Embassy reported that 175 bodies have so far been recovered, although a significant number of local residents and tourists are still unaccounted for. The current information suggests that 476 people from 28 countries are missing, with figures still subject to verification as rescue operations progress.
The disaster has severely damaged infrastructure across regions like Rasuwa, Nuwakot, Dhading, and Gorkha, impacting roads, bridges, and riverside settlements. Rescue and relief operations, utilizing helicopters and ground teams, have ramped up in response to the crisis.
Medical assistance, temporary shelters, food, drinking water, and medicines are being provided to those affected by the floods. The importance of rapid response remains crucial as the situation evolves.
In a reassuring note, National Disaster Response Force Inspector General, Narendra Singh Bundela, reported no adverse flood impact in Indian border areas following the flash floods in Nepal. Agencies are closely monitoring water discharge levels in sensitive districts such as Kushinagar and West Champaran.
The Indian government has responded proactively, increasing its humanitarian assistance to Nepal. The Ministry of External Affairs announced that a second flight carrying 37.5 tonnes of humanitarian assistance, including medicines and food packets, departed for the flood-affected regions.
For those seeking help, the Embassy of India in Nepal has activated helpline numbers: +977 985 131 6807, +977 970 910 7500, and +977 981 032 6117, also available via WhatsApp. This marks a coordinated effort to address the distress caused by these unprecedented floods.
