Nepal floods: 469 killed as rescue operations continue

The family of two Sydney boys and their parents, who are among 39 Australians missing in Nepal after flash flooding, remain hopeful that they will be found safe. Shylaja Muralitharan, her husband Chandrasekaran Muralitharan, and their sons Ashwin, 14, and Aarush, 11, were participating in a pilgrimage when the flood occurred. They were part of a group of 15 Australians trekking as part of the Himalayan Glacier Adventures tour, heading towards an immigration checkpoint on the Tibet-Nepal border.

Their younger sister, Vaishnavi, expressed concern for the family, saying they are "really worried, but hopeful" and just waiting to be rescued. Vaishnavi requested that people be made aware of the family's situation and that they are eagerly awaiting their return. The family had been preparing for the trek for some time, training together and working hard to complete the long walk.

Vaishnavi, who wished to remain anonymous, said it is difficult to obtain clear information about the efforts being made to locate the missing individuals. She has spoken with department of foreign affairs and trade officials to learn more about the situation.