'Stand in solidarity': PM Modi speaks to Nepal's Balen Shah, offers flood aid

Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached out to Nepal's Balen Shah on Wednesday, conveying condolences over the tragic loss of lives in devastating floods in Nepal. He assured India's solidarity with Nepal during this challenging time. The PM of India emphasized that the nation is prepared to provide all possible humanitarian assistance to Nepal, with teams coordinating closely on rescue and relief efforts.

The floods in northern Nepal swept through on Wednesday morning after the Bhote Koshi River surged, reportedly from the Tibet direction, causing extensive damage in Rasuwa district and nearby Syafrubesi, where vehicles, goods, and property were washed away. At least eight people were reported dead, and hundreds remain missing, including 105 Indians.

The missing include travellers from various nations such as Australia, the US, UK, Malaysia, the Netherlands, and South Africa. Many of the missing are believed to be pilgrims participating in the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. Search operations by the Nepal Army, Armed Police Force, and Nepal Police using helicopters, drones, and sniffer dogs have rescued over 25 people by Wednesday afternoon.