Nepal Flash Floods: 175 Dead, Nearly 300 Indians Missing, Rescue Efforts Intensify

Kathmandu: The sudden flood in Nepal on Wednesday caused massive devastation in many areas. Nepal's Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal said on Thursday that hundreds of people, including about 300 Indians, are missing after this disaster. So far, information about the death of 175 people has come to light in Nepal and Tibet. Officials say relief and rescue operations are ongoing and the number of dead and missing may increase.

In which areas of Nepal did the flood cause the most damage?

The maximum impact of floods was seen in Rasuwa, Dhading and Nuwakot districts of Nepal. The sudden flood caused damage to many constructions in Timure area near the China border. Roads and other essential facilities have also been affected. Administration teams are reaching the affected areas, assessing the damage and taking people to safe places.

Where did so much water come from suddenly?

According to initial information, the water path was blocked for some time due to avalanche in Lhende, a tributary of Bhote Koshi river. After this, the accumulated water rapidly moved downwards and the flood took a severe form. The cause of the disaster is still being investigated by the authorities. Initially avalanche is being considered as the main reason.

How many people are missing in Tibet also?

Floods and debris have also caused huge damage in the Gyirong area of Tibet adjacent to Nepal. According to the report of Chinese state broadcaster CCTV, 558 people have been reported missing in Guirong County. Of these, 260 are foreign nationals. Information about the death of at least three people due to debris near Gyirong Port has also come to light.

What is the situation regarding Indian citizens?

The news of a large number of Indians stranded or missing in Nepal has raised concerns. Earlier, Nepali authorities had informed that 133 Indians and 37 NRIs were missing. Pilgrims going on Kailash Mansarovar Yatra were said to be included in these. Now Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal has informed about the missing of about 300 Indians. The actual numbers are expected to become clear as rescue operations proceed.

What help has India sent to Nepal?

India has started relief operations for Nepal after the disaster. Foreign Minister S Jaishankar said that the second flight carrying 37.5 tonnes of humanitarian aid and disaster relief material was sent to Nepal. Earlier, Indian Air Force's C-130J aircraft had reached Nepal carrying 10 tonnes of essential goods. This included tents, blankets, hygiene kits, solar lamps and medicines.

How many security personnel are involved in the rescue operation?

More than 5,000 army and police personnel have been deployed in relief and rescue operations in Nepal. According to Nepal Army spokesperson Raja Ram Basnet, 125 people were evacuated safely during the operation on Thursday. These included 20 foreign nationals. Food, tents and other essential items are being delivered to the affected areas by helicopter.

What did Prime Minister Balendra Shah do in the affected areas?

Nepal's Prime Minister Balendra Shah reached flood-affected Nuwakot on Thursday. He reached the spot and took stock of the damage and took information about the relief work from the local administration, security officials and public representatives. The government is currently facing a big challenge of searching for the missing people, providing assistance to the affected families and restarting the damaged infrastructure.