India mobilizes relief as 320 nationals remain missing in Nepal floods

The Ministry of External Affairs said on Wednesday that 320 Indian citizens and approximately 100 persons of Indian origin (PIOs) remain uncontactable following severe flash floods that swept through Nepal. The disaster has prompted New Delhi to escalate its humanitarian response with additional relief material, specialized rescue teams, and medical units being dispatched to the affected regions.

In a positive development, 96 Indian nationals who were stranded on the Chinese side of the Nepal-Tibet border have successfully crossed into Nepali territory, reducing the number of Indians at immediate risk in border areas. These individuals are being provided with necessary support and assistance as they transit through Nepal.

The Indian government is coordinating closely with Nepali authorities to locate the missing nationals and provide emergency aid to affected areas. Medical teams have been prioritized given the health risks typically associated with flood disasters, including disease outbreaks and injuries among survivors.

While flash floods are not uncommon in Nepal's mountainous terrain during monsoon season, the scale of this disaster has prompted an urgent cross-border relief operation. Indian officials continue efforts to establish contact with missing nationals and are maintaining regular updates with their families regarding rescue operations.

The MEA has appealed to Indians planning travel to Nepal to exercise caution and stay informed about ground conditions in flood-affected areas. Additional resources are being mobilized as situation reports emerge from affected regions.