Nepal Floods: 300 Indians Among Thousands Missing, Says Foreign Minister
Nepal's Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal has said that nearly 300 Indian nationals, mostly Mansarovar pilgrims, are among the thousands reported missing after devastating flash floods struck the Himalayan nation on Wednesday. Speaking at the NDTV World Anviksha Summit in Kathmandu, Khanal confirmed that at least 160 people have died in the disaster, with entire towns in the Rasuwa region wiped out within hours.
"Town after town have been wiped out within hours," Khanal said, adding that thousands of families have lost their homes and remain untraced. "We are still trying to ascertain the full extent of the disaster."
The minister stated that around 500 foreign nationals are currently out of contact, including close to 300 Indians who were travelling on the route to the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra through the affected area. He said the Nepal government has been in constant touch with embassies of other countries regarding the safety of missing foreign nationals.
"We are as committed to the safety and well-being of foreign nationals as we are to the Nepali citizens," Khanal emphasised.
Describing the flash floods as one of the worst disasters to have hit Nepal in recent times, Khanal thanked India for the prompt relief sent by New Delhi. "Right now the focus is on rescue and immediate relief. Many from across the globe are supporting and empathising with Nepal. The Government of India has already sent relief. We express gratitude," he said.
The minister also appealed to the international community to stand by Nepal in this hour of crisis and continue visiting the country to help it rebuild. He noted that most tourist sites in Nepal remain unaffected by the floods and are open to visitors. "Beyond immediate relief, it is important that the world remain connected with Nepal and help us rebuild. Tourism is critical to our rebuilding efforts. Would like to emphasise that the majority of Nepal is not impacted and most tourist areas are still open. Places like Pokhara and the Mount Everest region are open to tourists and safe. Request people to spend their tourism dollar in Nepal, which will help us rebuild over the next few months," Khanal urged.
Drawing on past resilience, the minister said, "We have emerged stronger after past tragedies, most recently the big 2015 earthquake. Nepal will rebuild itself again."
