178 Indians Missing After Nepal Floods; 175 Bodies Recovered

At least 178 Indian nationals are among hundreds reported missing following catastrophic flash floods in Nepal. The disaster predominantly affected regions along the Bhote Koshi and Trishuli rivers, according to an official update from the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) on Thursday.

The regions of Rasuwa, Nuwakot, Dhading, and Gorkha faced immense damage, including collapsed roads, bridges, and riverside settlements. Preliminary assessments suggest that a total of 644 individuals, including 127 Nepali nationals, are currently unaccounted for.

The NTB confirmed that this information is undergoing rigorous verification through travel agencies, local authorities, and security forces. This verification is crucial as the chaos of the flood has hindered accurate reporting.

Among the missing, the NTB reported count also includes 53 Ukrainians, 35 Australians, and 25 Canadians, alongside individuals from various other nations. The distressing statistics indicate a wider international impact from the flood.

Sources from the Nepal Embassy disclosed that rescue teams have recovered 175 bodies so far, yet, many local residents and tourists still remain unaccounted for. The current official figure stands at 476 people missing from 28 different countries, although these numbers may fluctuate as search and rescue operations continue.

The situation remains fluid; different agencies provide varying figures that are provisional. As search teams receive updated information, combined efforts are ongoing to reconcile these data.

Additionally, the disaster has severely disrupted infrastructure. Many crucial bridges and roads have become impassable, prompting Nepal’s security forces to ramp up rescue and relief operations. Authorities have deployed helicopters and ground teams to aid in recovery efforts.

Affected individuals are receiving vital assistance, including medical supplies, food, drinking water, and temporary shelters. The urgency of these provisions highlights the scale of the humanitarian crisis resulting from the floods.

No adverse impact from the floods has been reported in Indian border areas, emphasized National Disaster Response Force Inspector General Narendra Singh Bundela. He reassured that Indian agencies are closely monitoring water discharge levels in vulnerable districts, including Kushinagar and West Champaran, while local governments and the Central Water Commission remain on high alert.

In light of the ongoing crisis, India has intensified its humanitarian support to Nepal. The Ministry of External Affairs dispatched a second flight carrying 37.5 tonnes of humanitarian assistance, including essential medicines and food packets, to support flood-affected areas.

The Embassy of India in Nepal has activated helpline numbers to assist individuals needing help. These numbers (+977 985 131 6807, +977 970 910 7500 and +977 981 032 6117) are available via WhatsApp, ensuring that families seeking information can stay connected during this harrowing time.