India intensifies efforts to trace missing nationals as communication networks remain disrupted across flood-hit areas
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Thursday said 288 Indian nationals remain uncontactable following the devastating flash floods in Nepal, while around 200 Indians undertaking the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra have sought evacuation.
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said those uncontactable include 73 Indians working on the Trishuli-1 hydropower project, along with tourists and pilgrims from Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Kerala and other states.
A large group associated with Sadhguru’s Isha Foundation also remains untraceable, Jaiswal said. Meanwhile, 21 Indians from Tamil Nadu have been rescued, while several others remain stranded on the Chinese side. The MEA said communication networks in the affected areas have been “totally disrupted”, making it difficult to establish contact with those missing.
India has dispatched two aircraft carrying relief material to Nepal and is coordinating rescue and evacuation efforts with Nepalese authorities. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar also held a high-level meeting with officials and India’s ambassadors in Kathmandu and Beijing to review efforts to trace affected Indians.
Meanwhile, Nepal Police said the death toll rose to 270 after 93 more bodies were recovered. More than 800 stranded people, including injured persons, have been rescued. The floods have caused extensive damage to homes, roads, bridges and hydropower facilities across several districts.
Indian missions have activated emergency helplines to assist families seeking information about missing nationals.
Also Read: Hagrama Mohilary Pays Tribute to Bijit Gwra Narzary: BTC Declares Holiday in 5 Districts
