Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Nepal Prime Minister Balendra Shah on Wednesday after devastating flash floods hit parts of Nepal, leaving several people dead and hundreds missing. Modi expressed condolences over the loss of lives and assured Nepal that India would provide all possible humanitarian assistance.
In a post on X, Modi said he had conveyed his condolences to Shah and reaffirmed India's solidarity with the people of Nepal during the crisis. He also said that India was coordinating closely with Nepal on rescue and relief operations.
The flash floods struck Nepal's Rasuwa district near the Tibet border early Wednesday, causing widespread destruction. At least eight people were reported dead, while authorities feared the toll could rise as rescue teams continued searching affected areas.
The disaster also triggered major concerns over the safety of tourists and pilgrims travelling through the region. According to the Nepal Tourism Board, 384 travellers were reported missing from the affected areas. The group included 291 foreign nationals and 93 Nepali citizens.
Indian nationals make up a significant portion of those reported missing. At least 105 Indians and 37 non-resident Indians were among those whose whereabouts were not immediately known. Many of the Indian travellers were reportedly on their way to Tibet for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.
The sudden flooding occurred along the Bhote Koshi River at around 9 am local time. Officials said a huge volume of water came from the Tibet side of the border and swept through Rasuwa and Dhading districts, as well as Nuwakot further southwest.
The floods caused extensive damage to villages and critical infrastructure. Several hydropower projects were also affected, while roads and other transport links were damaged, making rescue operations more difficult.
The disaster extended beyond Nepal's territory. Across the border in Tibet, a mudslide struck the Gyirong border crossing between China and Nepal. Chinese authorities reported major casualties and missing people in the area.
India has also stepped up preparations in response to the disaster. Rescue agencies have been placed on alert, while authorities in border states are monitoring the possibility of floodwaters affecting Indian territory.
The crisis has highlighted the importance of close coordination between India and Nepal during natural disasters. With hundreds of people still unaccounted for, rescue teams are continuing their efforts to locate missing travellers and assist affected communities.
As the situation develops, India has reiterated its readiness to support Nepal with rescue, relief and humanitarian assistance.
Reader Comments 0