Families’ desperate wait for news of loved ones after devastating Nepal flash flood

Several Indian states, in collaboration with the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu, have established emergency helplines to aid those affected by devastating floods at the Nepal-Tibet border. At least 160 people have lost their lives and hundreds remain missing. The Indian Embassy in Nepal is actively working with Nepali authorities to ensure the safe evacuation of Indian nationals in distress and to coordinate rescue efforts.

To seek assistance or information, Indian nationals can contact the embassy helplines at +977 985 131 6807 or +977 970 910 7500.

Other Indian state governments have also set up helplines to support their citizens. For instance, the Karnataka government's State Emergency Operations Centre has a toll-free helpline at 1070 and a number for general queries at 080-22253707. Tour operators, family members, and stranded individuals are encouraged to submit details through a Google form or email seockarnataka@gmail.com.

Similarly, the Telangana government has activated a Helpline and Coordination Centre at Telangana Bhavan in New Delhi, providing assistance to residents who may be stranded or affected by the floods. Kerala's NoRKA-Roots field agency has established a help desk, accessible via the toll-free number 1800 425 3939 or +91 88020 12345 for overseas callers.

Tamil Nadu's Chief Minister has directed officials to trace and rescue affected individuals from the state. The Tamil Nadu House in New Delhi has a toll-free helpline at 1800 309 3793, and a control room can be reached at +91 92895 16712. Uttarakhand's State Disaster Management Authority has released helpline numbers, including 0135-2710334, 2710335, 2664314, 2664315, 2664316, and 8218867005, as well as a toll-free number at 1070.