Nepal Flash Flood: 644 Travellers, Including 178 Indians, Reported Missing In Rasuwa
Summarized by AI; it may make mistakes. Check important info
Summarized by AI; it may make mistakes. Check important info
At least 644 travellers, including 178 Indians, have been reported missing following a devastating flash flood along the Bhote Koshi and Trishuli rivers in Nepal’s Rasuwa, Nuwakot, Dhading and Gorkha districts, according to a situation update issued by the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) on August 27.
The flash flood struck at around 8.30 am on Wednesday, August 26, severely damaging riverside areas along the two rivers. Nepal’s Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, Nepal Tourism Board, Tourist Police and tourism stakeholders are working to verify the whereabouts and safety status of tourists and travellers who were in or travelling through the affected areas.
644 Travellers Reported Missing
A preliminary record compiled from trekking and travel companies has identified 644 travellers as missing from the affected area, the NTB said. The information is being verified and cross-checked with travel agencies, guides, local authorities and security agencies.
The list includes nationals from 33 countries, along with Nepali citizens.
As of 12 noon on August 27, the NTB document lists all 644 people as still missing.
India Has Highest Number Among Foreign Nationals
According to the country-wise list, 178 Indian nationals have been reported missing, the highest number among the nationalities listed.
The breakdown includes:
- Nepal: 127
- India: 178
- USA: 65
- Ukraine: 53
- Malaysia: 51
- Australia: 35
- United Kingdom: 33
- Canada: 25
- Germany: 8
- Russia: 8
- South Africa: 6
- Latvia: 6
- Japan: 5
- France: 4
- Spain: 3
- Belgium: 3
- Italy: 2
- Ireland: 2
- Netherlands: 2
- New Zealand: 5
- Kazakhstan: 2
- Belarus: 1
- Bulgaria: 1
- Finland: 1
- Hungary: 1
- Israel: 1
- Lithuania: 1
- Philippines: 1
- Portugal: 2
- Serbia: 1
- Singapore: 9
- Sweden: 1
- Switzerland: 1
Rescue Efforts Underway
The Nepal Tourism Board said efforts are underway to locate and rescue people who may be stranded or affected by the flooding.
Authorities have urged tourists and travellers in the region to remain calm, stay informed and follow official safety instructions. People in affected areas have also been advised to contact the nearest police or security authority, local administration, travel agency, guide or tour operator for assistance.
The NTB has provided 1234 as a toll-free emergency number, 1144 as a hotline and 9851289445 for Tourist Police assistance.
The board said riverside areas in the four affected districts have suffered severe damage, while other areas remain unaffected.
