Nepal Flash Flood: 105 Indians Among 384 Tourists Missing; 22 Killed

Following a sudden flash flood in Nepal's Bhote Koshi River in Rasuwa district near the Tibet border on Wednesday, at least 384 tourists and travellers, including 105 Indian nationals, are currently missing.

According to a preliminary situation update from the Nepal Tourism Board, the missing people include 291 foreign nationals and 93 Nepali nationals. Besides the 105 Indians, the list includes 37 non-resident Indians (NRIs), 12 British nationals, 17 Malaysians, four South Africans, three Americans, one Australian, one Dutch national and eight South Koreans. The nationalities of 111 others are yet to be confirmed.

Officials from the Nepal Tourism Board, Tourist Police and other authorities launched search and rescue operations after the flash flood occurred at around 8:30 am on Wednesday.

At least 22 killed in flash flood

According to a police official cited in a report published by Reuters:

"At least 22 people have died due to flash flooding in Nepal and Tibet's Himalayan border regions."

The official added that some of the victims were identified as tourists.

PM Modi assures Nepal of help

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on social media site X that he spoke with Prime Minister Balen Shah and expressed his condolences for the deaths caused by the floods in Nepal. He went on to say that during these difficult time, Indians stand in solidarity with their brothers and sisters in Nepal.

“India is ready to provide all possible humanitarian assistance to Nepal. Our teams are coordinating closely on rescue and relief efforts,” PM Modi said.

Bihar, UP put on flood alert

Following the flash floods in Nepal, a flood alert has been issued in Bihar as the Gandak River recorded increased water flow from Nepal. All 36 gates of the Gandak Barrage at Valmikinagar have been opened as a precautionary measure.

A technical team has been dispatched to monitor the barrage, while officials have also alerted districts along the Gandak River.