At least 178 Indian nationals are among hundreds missing following catastrophic flash floods that swept through areas along the Bhote Koshi and Trishuli rivers in Nepal. The Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) reported this grim news Thursday, contributing to a growing crisis affecting not just locals but international tourists.
The floods have wreaked havoc across several districts, including Rasuwa, Nuwakot, Dhading, and Gorkha, damaging vital infrastructure such as roads and bridges, and devastating riverside settlements. Preliminary assessments indicate that up to 644 travelers are unaccounted for, alongside 127 Nepali nationals who are also missing.
The NTB has emphasized that these numbers remain provisional and are undergoing verification with the assistance of travel agents, local authorities, and security agencies. Alongside the missing Indians, reports from other international sources cite 53 Ukrainian, 35 Australian, and 25 Canadian citizens among those unaccounted for.
In a separate announcement, the Nepal Embassy has confirmed that rescue teams have retrieved 175 bodies, although many local residents and tourists still remain unaccounted for. According to the most recent update, approximately 476 individuals from 28 different countries have been reported missing, with search and rescue operations currently underway.
The NTB is working diligently to cross-check information from various agencies to provide accurate data as the situation unfolds. As of now, discrepancies in reported figures are expected due to the chaotic circumstances of the floods.
The disaster has imposed significant challenges on rescue operations, damaging numerous bridges and roads that hinder access to affected areas. Nepal’s security forces have intensified their efforts, utilizing both helicopters and ground teams for search and rescue missions.
Authorities have mobilized resources to provide essential medical assistance, temporary shelters, food, drinking water, and necessary medicines to those affected by this calamity. Efforts continue with a strong focus on ensuring that aid reaches the most vulnerable populations.
Despite the overwhelming situation, Indian border areas have not reported adverse impacts from the floods. Inspector General Narendra Singh Bundela of the National Disaster Response Force stated that agencies are closely monitoring water discharge levels in sensitive districts such as Kushinagar and West Champaran. Both state and central agencies remain on alert.
In light of this ongoing humanitarian crisis, India has escalated its relief efforts, dispatching a second flight loaded with 37.5 tonnes of humanitarian assistance including food packets and medicines to Nepal. The Ministry of External Affairs confirmed this timely response to support the neighboring nation.
The Indian Embassy in Nepal has activated helpline numbers for those in distress: +977 985 131 6807, +977 970 910 7500, and +977 981 032 6117. These numbers are also accessible via WhatsApp to assist citizens seeking help.
The situation remains fluid, and authorities continue to engage in extensive rescue and recovery operations. The deepening crisis highlights the importance of international cooperation and readiness in facing such unpredicted natural disasters, as efforts persist to ensure the safety of all affected.
