287 Indians still missing after Nepal flash floods, 120 others crossed over to Nepal from China: MEA

Over 72 hours after flash floods struck Nepal, 287 Indian nationals were still missing, accompanied by 128 others of Indian origin with different nationalities, according to the latest figures released by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Saturday evening. The ministry disclosed that 88 Indian nationals were rescued on Saturday.

Meanwhile, 120 Indian nationals crossed into Nepal from China on the same day, and the government plans to organize their return to India. Four Indians were rescued from a hydropower project in Rasuwa on Saturday and will arrive in Kathmandu later in the day, the MEA informed. Nepalese authorities are struggling to identify bodies; hence, six forensic expert teams from India will arrive in Kathmandu to assist in analyzing DNA samples for identification of mortal remains, the MEA announced.

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA) of Nepal has confirmed at least 626 deaths and over 2,400 people missing due to the catastrophic flash floods and landslides along the Nepal-Tibet border. A specialized reconnaissance team for tunnel rescue operations dispatched by India landed in Kathmandu late on Friday evening and commenced their work on Saturday in the affected area.

Following their recommendation, a specialized tunnel rescue team from India with equipment is anticipated to arrive in Nepal later on Saturday night, as per the MEA.