178 Indians Missing After Nepal Flash Floods; 175 Bodies Found

At least 178 Indian nationals are among hundreds of individuals reported missing after devastating flash floods struck areas along the Bhote Koshi and Trishuli rivers in Nepal. The Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) confirmed this alarming statistic on Thursday, revealing the crisis’s depth.

The floods wreaked havoc in Rasuwa, Nuwakot, Dhading, and Gorkha districts, damaging roads, bridges, and riverside settlements, leaving a grim aftermath. The NTB reported that preliminary data from trekking and travel companies identified 644 travellers, which includes 127 Nepali nationals, as missing.

The Board is currently verifying this information with travel agencies, guides, and local authorities. Among the foreign nationals unaccounted for, the figures include 178 Indians, 53 Ukrainians, 35 Australians, and 25 Canadians, illustrating the widespread impact of the disaster.

As of now, sources within the Nepal Embassy reported that 175 bodies have been recovered. Yet, the quest for local residents and tourists continues, showcasing the ongoing urgency of the situation. According to the latest available information, 476 individuals from 28 countries remain unaccounted for, although these numbers are provisional and subject to change as rescue operations progress.

Search and rescue teams have intensified their operations employing both helicopters and ground crews to locate missing persons. The flood’s destruction has severely impacted infrastructure, culminating in significant challenges for ongoing rescue efforts.

The Indian National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) confirmed that no adverse effects of the floods have been recorded in Indian border areas. Inspector General Narendra Singh Bundela assured that monitoring continues in vulnerable districts, including Kushinagar and West Champaran. Both state governments and the Central Water Commission remain in a state of high alert.

In response to the disaster, India has escalated its humanitarian efforts. The Ministry of External Affairs stated a second flight carrying 37.5 tonnes of humanitarian assistance, medicines, and food packets has been dispatched to Nepal. This support underlines India’s commitment to aid its neighbouring nation during this critical time.

The Indian Embassy in Nepal has activated helpline numbers to assist those seeking information: +977 985 131 6807, +977 970 910 7500, and +977 981 032 6117. These numbers are also accessible via WhatsApp to facilitate communication.

As search and rescue efforts advance, the focus remains on supporting the victims and families of those affected by the catastrophic flash floods. The situation highlights the need for continued vigilance, cooperation, and mutual aid during this time of crisis.