Concerns over the safety of Indian citizens in Nepal have increased after devastating flash floods hit several parts of the country. Nepal Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal said on Thursday that more than 300 Indian citizens are reported missing following the disaster. He said many of those missing are believed to be people travelling through the region for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. The Nepal government is working to assess the situation and establish contact with people who remain unaccounted for.

Thousands Still Missing After Flash Floods

The Nepal Foreign Minister said thousands of people remain out of contact following the flash floods. More than 160 people have reportedly died in the disaster, while many families have lost their homes. Authorities are still assessing the full extent of the damage and trying to determine the exact number of people who remain missing.

Indian Pilgrims Among Those Affected

The affected region is an important route used by pilgrims travelling towards Kailash Mansarovar. As a result, a large number of Indian pilgrims are believed to have been stranded or gone missing after the floods. An earlier preliminary list released by the Nepal Tourism Board reportedly mentioned 384 missing travellers, including 105 Indians and 37 NRIs. The number of missing Indian citizens was later described as more than 300 by the Nepal Foreign Minister.

Bhote Koshi River Flood Causes Widespread Damage

The flash floods have caused major destruction in areas including Rasuwa. Reports indicate that a sudden obstruction in the flow of the Lhende River led to a large volume of water moving towards the Bhote Koshi River. The powerful flow damaged villages, bridges, roads and other infrastructure in its path, making access to several affected areas difficult.

India Extends Support For Relief And Rescue

India has stepped up its assistance following the disaster in Nepal. The Indian Embassy is coordinating with the Nepal government and local authorities to help locate and assist affected Indian citizens. An Indian Air Force C-130J aircraft was also reported to have been sent to Nepal carrying relief material for people affected by the floods.

Helpline Numbers Released For Indians

Families of Indian citizens who are stranded or missing in Nepal can contact the Indian Embassy for assistance. The embassy has issued helpline numbers for information and support related to affected Indian citizens: +977 985 131 6807 and +977 970 910 7500.

Rescue Operations Continue

Nepal’s army, police and other emergency agencies are continuing search and rescue operations in the affected areas. The destruction of roads and bridges has made it difficult for rescue teams to reach some locations by land. Helicopters and other available resources are being used to reach difficult areas and search for missing people.

The relief and rescue operation remains underway in Nepal. The Foreign Minister’s statement that more than 300 Indians are missing has increased concern among their families in India. Indian and Nepalese authorities are coordinating to identify affected people and help evacuate those who are stranded. The figures may change as authorities continue to verify the status of people who remain unaccounted for.