Nepal floods: India releases emergency helplines as over 130 citizens go missing
New Delhi: India has issued emergency helpline numbers for its citizens affected by the devastating flash floods in Nepal, where a sudden surge in the Bhote Koshi River has claimed at least 160 lives and left more than 800 people missing. The Indian Embassy in Kathmandu released two contact numbers — +977 985 131 6807 and +977 970 910 7500 — for Indian nationals seeking assistance or information.
The floods struck Nepal's Rasuwa district near the Nepal-China border on Wednesday morning. A sudden rise in the Bhote Koshi River, which flows from Tibet into Nepal, triggered massive mudslides and flash floods in the Rasuwagadhi-Timure area at around 9 am local time. The deluge affected Rasuwa and parts of neighbouring Nuwakot and Dhading districts, washing away vehicles, bridges, goods and other infrastructure. Several hydropower projects along the river were also damaged.
According to officials, more than 130 Indian nationals are among the missing. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) shared the helpline numbers, urging affected citizens and their families to get in touch. The Indian Embassy in Kathmandu is coordinating with local authorities to ascertain the whereabouts of Indian nationals and provide necessary assistance. Citizens of Australia, the Netherlands, the United States, Malaysia, the United Kingdom and South Africa are also reported missing.
The MEA said it is in constant touch with the embassy and is closely monitoring the situation. The mission also advised Indian nationals to remain safe and follow guidance issued by Nepalese authorities. Rescue operations by Nepal's security forces are underway, and communication links damaged by the floods are being restored to facilitate relief work.
Nepal, a mountainous country prone to landslides and flash floods, has faced several such disasters in recent years. The Bhote Koshi River is known for its volatile flow, particularly during the monsoon season. The sudden surge on Wednesday caught residents and authorities off guard, leaving little time for evacuation. The Nepalese government has declared the affected districts as disaster zones and is leading rescue and relief efforts.
India has historically extended support to Nepal during natural calamities, and this instance is no different. The Indian government has expressed condolences and reaffirmed its commitment to assist its neighbour in times of crisis. The emergency helplines are part of the immediate response to ensure that Indian nationals receive timely help and information.
Families of Indian nationals in Nepal who are unable to reach their loved ones can contact the Indian Embassy at the numbers provided. The embassy has also set up a 24x7 control room, details of which have been shared through official channels. Indian nationals are advised to stay calm and follow instructions from local authorities.
