India has stepped up its humanitarian response to the devastating flash floods in Nepal, sending a second aircraft carrying 37.5 tonnes of relief material, medicines and food packets on Thursday, August 27. The latest consignment comes as rescue teams continue searching for survivors and missing people after one of the worst disasters to hit the region in recent years.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar confirmed the dispatch of the second flight, saying India remains in close and continuous contact with the Nepalese authorities. He said New Delhi would continue to strongly support the ongoing rescue and relief operations in the neighbouring country.
The latest shipment follows an initial 10-tonne consignment of humanitarian assistance and disaster relief material sent by India on Wednesday. The first shipment included essential items such as shelters, blankets, hygiene supplies, solar lamps and medicines.
The aid comes as Nepal faces a severe humanitarian crisis following catastrophic flash floods along the Bhote Koshi and Trishuli river systems. According to the latest reports, at least 162 people have been confirmed dead, while hundreds remain missing. Bodies have been recovered from several downstream districts, including Rasuwa, Nuwakot, Dhading, Chitwan, Gorkha and Tanahun.
The disaster has also affected foreign nationals, including a large number of Indians who were travelling through the affected areas. Several Indian tourists and pilgrims are among those reported missing, prompting Indian authorities to coordinate closely with Nepal for information, rescue and evacuation efforts.
The flash floods caused widespread destruction, washing away roads, bridges, homes and other infrastructure. Rescue teams are working in difficult conditions as mud, debris and damaged roads continue to hamper access to affected areas. Helicopters have been deployed to deliver emergency supplies and evacuate stranded people.
India has also been closely monitoring the situation along its own border. Authorities in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh have been placed on alert amid concerns over the possible impact of rising river levels and further flooding.
With the second relief flight now on its way, India has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Nepal during the emergency. The immediate priority remains saving lives, reaching stranded communities and providing food, medicines and other essential supplies to people affected by the disaster.
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