At least 178 Indian nationals are among hundreds of people reported missing after devastating flash floods struck areas along the Bhote Koshi and Trishuli rivers in Nepal on Thursday. The Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) confirmed that preliminary records show a total of 644 travelers, including 127 Nepali nationals, unaccounted for in the aftermath of the disaster.
The floods have wreaked havoc across the districts of Rasuwa, Nuwakot, Dhading, and Gorkha, leaving roads, bridges, and riverside settlements severely damaged. Authorities are working tirelessly to retrieve information from trekking and travel companies, guides, local authorities, and security agencies to verify reports of the missing.
In addition to the 178 Indians, 53 Ukrainians, 35 Australians, and 25 Canadians have also been reported missing. Sources from the Nepal Embassy reported that 175 bodies have been recovered so far, while a large number of tourists and local residents remain unaccounted for. As of now, a total of 476 individuals from 28 different countries are considered missing.
Rescue operations are in full swing, and authorities are continuing to search affected regions to locate those missing. However, the number of unaccounted individuals remains provisional and is evolving as new information surfaces.
The disaster caused significant destruction, with dozens of bridges and roads damaged. Nepal’s security forces have activated intensive rescue operations, deploying helicopters and ground teams to access hard-hit areas. Medical assistance, temporary shelters, food, drinking water, and medicines are being provided to the flood victims.
Despite the catastrophic events in Nepal, authorities in India have reported no adverse flood impact on the border areas. National Disaster Response Force Inspector General Narendra Singh Bundela stated that sensitive districts like Kushinagar and West Champaran are under surveillance, with agencies closely monitoring water discharge levels.
In response to the crisis, India has increased its humanitarian assistance to Nepal, dispatching a second flight with 37.5 tonnes of essential supplies, along with medicines and food packets. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs has emphasized their commitment to aiding the flood-affected areas.
For those seeking assistance, the Embassy of India in Nepal has activated helpline numbers for immediate support: +977 985 131 6807, +977 970 910 7500, and +977 981 032 6117. These numbers are also available on WhatsApp.
