Tears of relief as 31 Keralites return from flood-hit Nepal

Kochi, A group of 31 Keralites stranded in Nepal's flood-hit regions were finally able to return home safely on Sunday, finding emotional relief in their reunion with loved ones at the international airport. The group, comprising women, infants, and elderly individuals, recounted how a brief 20-minute delay at a Buddha temple had been a divine intervention, sparing them from a devastating flood that swept through their surroundings.

These travellers, en route from Kathmandu to Pokhara, witnessed the terrifying spectacle of water rushing down from around 600 feet above, obliterating buildings in a matter of seconds. "If it wasn't for the delay, we would have crossed the bridge and road when it was already washed away," one of the survivors recalled, his voice trembling with the recollection of the narrow escape.

As the group made their way to safety after trekking through a challenging route, they faced the grim reality of their situation—the inability to attend to basic needs and find food for the entire night. The sheer exhaustion and emotional turmoil were palpable as they met their families at the airport, with many members reduced to tears.

While acknowledging their own survival as a miracle, the women in the group also expressed gratitude that the loss of life was not greater, adding to the somber tone of their return. The Kerala government's NORKA Roots agency, responsible for coordinating matters of non-resident Keralites, confirmed that seven people, including four Australians, were still missing in the aftermath, while the safety of the remaining 45 individuals had been established.