‘Nearly 300 Indians Among Thousands Reported Missing’: Nepal Foreign Minister

Khatmandu: “Town after town have been wiped out within hours,” said Nepal Foreign  Minister Shisir Khanal as he recounted the initial estimate of the devastating flash floods that stuck Nepal on Thursday. Khanal confirmed that 160 people have died and thousands remained untraced after the tragedy in the Rasuwa region.

“Thousands of families have lost homes and are missing as of now. We are still trying to ascertain the full extent of the disaster.” The minister also informed that at least 300 Indian nationals, mostly Masarovar pilgrims, have been reported missing in the flash floods.

“Foreign nationals, including Indians, take the route in the affected area to the Masarovar Yatra. Close to 300 Indians have been reported mssing and the government is trying to establish contact with them,” Khanal said. In all around 500 foreign nationals are out of contact at present, the minister informed.

He added that the Nepal government has been in constant with embassies of other countries regarding the safety of the foreign nationals missing. “We are as committed to the safety and well being of foreign nationals as we are to the Nepali citizens,” the minister stated.

Describing the flash floods as one the worst disaster to have struck the Himalayan nation in recent times, Khanal thanked India for the prompt relief being sent by New Delhi.