At least 178 Indian nationals are missing following catastrophic flash floods that overwhelmed portions of Nepal’s Rasuwa, Nuwakot, Dhading, and Gorkha districts, the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) reported on Thursday. The flash floods affected the Bhote Koshi and Trishuli rivers, disrupting lives and leading to extensive damages.
The NTB noted that preliminary reports from trekking and travel companies identified a total of 644 individuals missing, which includes 127 Nepalis. This distressing count also features 53 Ukrainians, 35 Australians, 25 Canadians, along with several other foreign nationals.
The information regarding these missing people is currently under verification, as local authorities, travel agencies, and security sectors continue to cross-check reports. Disturbingly, the Nepal Embassy indicated that 175 bodies have been recovered from various locations, though many local residents and tourists remain unaccounted for.
As of now, the total number of missing persons stands at 476 from 28 countries, although this data is provisional and subject to changes as search and rescue operations progress.
The flash floods have wreaked havoc, damaging vital infrastructure including dozens of bridges and roads. In response, Nepal’s security forces have intensified their rescue efforts, utilizing helicopters and ground teams to facilitate the mission. They are providing medical assistance, temporary shelters, food, drinking water, and essential medicines to the affected.
Despite the catastrophe, no adverse flood impact has been reported in Indian border areas, according to National Disaster Response Force Inspector General Narendra Singh Bundela. Local agencies remain alert, closely monitoring water discharge levels in sensitive districts such as Kushinagar and West Champaran.
Recognizing the need for humanitarian support, India has enhanced its assistance efforts. The Ministry of External Affairs announced that a second flight carrying 37.5 tonnes of humanitarian assistance—including relief material, medicines, and food packets—has been dispatched to Nepal.
The Indian Embassy in Nepal has set up helpline numbers for those seeking aid, which are +977 985 131 6807, +977 970 910 7500, and +977 981 032 6117. These numbers are also available via WhatsApp for broader accessibility.
This alarming situation continues to unfold as > rescue operations are ongoing in response to the severe flash floods. The international community watches closely, offering support while families anxiously await news of their loved ones caught in this natural disaster.
