Information about a large number of tourists missing has come to light after the sudden flood in Bhotekoshi river in Nepal. According to the Nepal Tourism Board, preliminary information has been received that a total of 384 travelers are missing from the affected areas, which includes 291 foreign nationals and 93 Nepalese nationals. About 105 Indian citizens are also said to be among them. Apart from this, information about 37 NRIs missing from the Himalayan glacier area has also come to light.
Nepal Tourism Board said that after the sudden flash flood in Bhotekoshi river in Rasuwa area at around 8:30 am on Wednesday, the Tourism Department, Tourist Police and other agencies are gathering information about the situation of tourists and travelers present in the affected areas. According to officials, the list of missing passengers is preliminary, which is being verified in collaboration with travel agencies, guides, local administration and security agencies.
Earlier, there was news of huge devastation due to severe flood in Bhotekoshi river in Rasuwa district of Nepal. At least seven people have been confirmed dead so far due to the floods, while 25 people have been rescued safely during relief and rescue operations. Nepal Police, Armed Police Force and Nepalese Army personnel have been deployed in rescue operations. 14 helicopters are being used for the search operation. At the same time, nine soldiers of the Armed Police Force deployed in Timure near the Nepal-China border have also been reported missing.
Nepal Tourism Board has issued emergency numbers for tourists and affected people. The board has appealed to the people to contact toll free number 1234 and helpline number 1144. Apart from this, assistance can also be taken on Tourist Police number 9851289445. Tourists have been appealed to remain calm, follow official instructions and maintain contact with the local administration.
The Indian Embassy has also issued emergency contact numbers to assist Indian citizens in Nepal. The embassy has informed affected Indians to contact the numbers +977 985 131 6807 and +977 970 910 7500.