163 Indians rescued in Nepal: MEA after flash floods

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) reported on Tuesday that 163 Indian nationals have been rescued since devastating flash floods hit Nepal on August 26. The rescue operation is being carried out in coordination with Nepalese authorities, the MEA said in a statement shared on X by spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal.

Jaiswal also revealed that a 19-member specialised forensics team has begun operations in Kathmandu, while a tunnel rescue team has been deployed in Nepal to reach individuals trapped in hydropower tunnels. The tunnel rescue team faced challenges such as restricted access space, limitations on specialised equipment due to the terrain, and a marshy tunnel floor. Despite these obstacles, the team has made progress using innovative methods and improvised floats.

The flash floods were triggered by a collapse or avalanche of ice and rock near the Nepal-Tibet border. They caused widespread destruction in northern and central Nepal, devastating towns and villages. According to the latest update as of 7:30 PM on September 1, 2026, the number of rescued Indian nationals has increased to 163, with an additional 5 individuals added since yesterday.