Nepal Floods: Over 100 Dead, 133 Indians Missing; Hundreds Yet To Be Traced

A sudden and devastating flash flood hit the Bhote Koshi-Trishuli River basin near Nepal's Tibet border on Wednesday, destroying settlements, vehicles and infrastructure and affecting Rasuwa and surrounding districts. A total of 157 bodies have been recovered so far, while around 403 Nepali and foreign tourists are missing, including 203 women and 200 men.

According to Nepalese media, police said 157 bodies had been recovered following the devastating floods in Rasuwa. The bodies were recovered from Chitwan (64), Dhading (27), East Nawalparasi (22), Gorkha (19), Nuwakot (13), Tanahun (9) and Rasuwa (3). Police are evacuating families from flood-prone areas to safer locations. Rescue operations are being carried out in coordination with various agencies and local residents. Teams are also working to clear roads blocked by the floods.

Of those reported missing, 341 are foreign nationals, including 133 Indian citizens, while 62 are Nepali nationals. 47 American citizens are also reported to be missing in the floods. Information also suggests that a large number of police personnel are missing. A total of 656 police personnel had been deployed, while 41 injured people are undergoing treatment.

The sudden flooding caused extensive destruction along settlements near the river, washing away homes, vehicles, bridges and sections of key roads. A 42-kilometre stretch connecting Betrawati in Nuwakot with the Rasuwagadhi border crossing has also been badly damaged, with several bridges swept away.

Hydropower and transmission infrastructure has also suffered major damage, while rescue operations have been complicated by overflowing rivers and difficult terrain. Nepal Army helicopters and disaster-response teams have been deployed to affected areas.

The Nepalese government has prioritised rescue, medical treatment and relief operations and said India and China have expressed their willingness to support the response.

The Nepal Tourism Board has issued emergency contacts for those seeking information about missing travellers. People can call the toll-free number 1234, emergency hotline 1144, or Tourist Police at 9851289445.

Vinita Bhat is a Chief Copy Editor at ABP Live English, with experience in TV and digital journalism. She covers geopolitics, international conflicts, global current affairs and Kashmir.

For tips and queries, write to vinitab@abpnetwork.com.