Nepal, while hundreds of people remain missing after floodwaters swept through the Rasuwa district near the Tibet border. The disaster has also triggered concern in neighbouring Indian states, with Bihar authorities monitoring the possible rise in the Gandak River.
According to the Nepal Tourism Board, 384 travellers have been reported missing, including 105 Indian nationals and 37 NRIs. Many of the missing Indians were reportedly travelling towards Tibet for the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra.
Nepal Floods Leave Hundreds Missing
The flash floods struck Nepal’s Rasuwa district on Wednesday after a sudden surge of water entered the Bhote Koshi River from the Tibet side. The powerful flow damaged roads, settlements and other infrastructure in the region.
The Nepal Tourism Board’s preliminary list includes 291 foreign nationals and 93 Nepali nationals among the 384 missing travellers. Indian nationals make up the largest group among the missing foreign travellers.
Rescue and search operations are underway, although difficult terrain, damaged infrastructure and continuing flood risks are complicating efforts to locate missing people.
105 Indians and 37 NRIs Among Missing
The situation has raised particular concern in India because 105 Indians and 37 non-resident Indians are among those reported missing.
The Indian Embassy in Kathmandu has issued emergency contact numbers to help families seek information about affected Indian nationals. Authorities are working with Nepalese officials to verify the whereabouts and safety of those travelling through the affected region.
The disaster has also affected the Kailash Manasarovar travel route, with several travellers caught in the affected areas.
Bihar on Alert as Gandak River Water Rises
The impact of the Nepal floods has extended beyond the border, with Bihar authorities monitoring rivers flowing from Nepal. The Gandak River is a particular concern because a sudden increase in water discharge could affect low-lying areas in the state.
Bihar’s official flood monitoring system showed the Gandak above the danger level at Dumariaghat in Gopalganj on August 26, while other locations were above warning levels.
Authorities have advised people living near the Gandak and other rivers to remain alert and follow official instructions. Uttar Pradesh has also placed districts including Maharajganj and Kushinagar on alert because of rising Gandak and Narayani river levels.
The situation remains under close watch as rescue operations continue in Nepal and authorities in India prepare for any downstream impact.