Nepal floods: Over 100 Indians missing; MEA issues helpline numbers

At least 844 travelers, including 133 Indians, are reported missing after a flash flood struck the Bhote Koshi River in Nepal's Rasuwa district on Wednesday morning, according to the Nepal Tourism Board. The victims consist of 466 foreign nationals and 113 Nepali nationals. The Indian Embassy in Kathmandu has provided emergency helpline numbers (+977 985 131 6807 and +977 970 910 7500) for Indian nationals affected by the disaster.

Foreign nationals among the missing include citizens from Australia, the Netherlands, the United States, Malaysia, the United Kingdom, and South Africa. Several other nationalities are still unconfirmed, while 37 are listed as Non-Resident Indians (NRIs). The preliminary list was gathered from 10 tourism and travel agencies, including Trekkers Society, Samrat Tours & Travels, Leaf Holiday, Himalayan Glacier, Kailash Journey, Fishtail Tours & Travels, Alpine Eco Trek, Kathmandu Holiday Tours & Travels, Richa Tours & Travels, and Explore Vacation.

Authorities are urging tourists in the affected areas to remain calm, stay informed through official channels, and follow safety instructions. In case of emergency, they should contact 1234, 1144, or the Tourist Police at 9851289445, or approach the nearest police or security personnel, local administration, travel agency, guide, or tour operator.

So far, 95 deaths have been confirmed, with over 25 survivors. The Nepal Army, Armed Police Force, and Nepal Police are actively engaged in search-and-rescue operations, utilizing 14 helicopters, drones, and sniffer dogs. Six individuals were rescued from Syafrubesi, two from Mailung, and four from Dhunche in Rasuwa. The army has also set up an emergency treatment center at Military Training Centre No. 1 in Trishuli.

Four Armed Police Force personnel went missing from Rasuwa, while nine personnel stationed near the Nepal-China border remain unaccounted for. A sudden surge in the Bhote Koshi River hit the Rasuwagadhi-Timure area around 9 am local time, impacting Rasuwa and surrounding Nuwakot and Dhading districts. The flood destroyed vehicles, goods, bridges, infrastructure, and damaged several hydropower projects.

Indian Home Minister Amit Shah spoke to Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary about concerns over a potential flood threat in Bihar due to heavy rainfall in Nepal. He pledged assistance to Bihar and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) is being deployed to respond to any emergencies. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also expressed concern and directed vulnerable districts to stay alert.