178 Indians Missing in Nepal Flash Floods; 175 Bodies Recovered

At least 178 Indian nationals are among hundreds of individuals reported missing after devastating flash floods struck areas along the Bhote Koshi and Trishuli rivers in Nepal, according to updates from the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) on Thursday.

The floods have wreaked havoc across several districts, including Rasuwa, Nuwakot, Dhading, and Gorkha. These regions have suffered severe damage, particularly to roads, bridges, and riverside settlements, impacting both local residents and tourists alike.

As per the NTB’s latest update, preliminary records from trekking and travel companies revealed that 644 travellers, which includes 127 Nepali nationals, remain unaccounted for in the flood-affected areas. Notably, the missing individuals also comprise 53 Ukrainians, 35 Australians, and 25 Canadians, alongside citizens from numerous other countries.

Sources from the Nepal Embassy confirmed that rescue teams have so far retrieved 175 bodies; however, a significant number of local residents and foreign tourists still remain unaccounted for in the aftermath of the disaster.

According to the latest information, 476 individuals from 28 nationalities have been reported missing, though these numbers are provisional and subject to verification as search and rescue operations persist.

The varying figures reported by different agencies reflect ongoing efforts to reconcile data as local authorities receive updated information from affected regions.

The floods have disrupted transportation by damaging numerous bridges and roads. In response, Nepal’s security forces have intensified rescue and relief operations, deploying helicopters and ground teams to assist those in need.

In the midst of this crisis, authorities have activated medical assistance, temporary shelters, food supplies, drinking water, and medicines to help those impacted by the floods.

No adverse flood impact has been reported in Indian border areas thus far, as confirmed by National Disaster Response Force Inspector General Narendra Singh Bundela. He noted that agencies are closely monitoring water discharge levels in sensitive districts, including Kushinagar and West Champaran. State governments and the Central Water Commission are remaining vigilant amid the ongoing crisis.

In a show of solidarity, India has ramped up humanitarian assistance to Nepal. The Ministry of External Affairs announced that a second flight carrying 37.5 tonnes of humanitarian assistance, including medicines and food packets, has been dispatched to aid the flood-hit country.

For families and individuals seeking assistance, the Embassy of India in Nepal has established helpline numbers at +977 985 131 6807, +977 970 910 7500, and +977 981 032 6117. These numbers are also available on WhatsApp for easier communication.