Nepal is facing a severe humanitarian crisis after a sudden and devastating flood struck areas along the Nepal-China border. Initial reports indicated around 98 deaths and more than 300 missing foreign tourists, including at least 105 Indian nationals. Reports on the number of deaths and missing people have varied, while rescue agencies continue relief operations in the affected areas.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Nepal Prime Minister Balen Shah and expressed deep condolences over the loss of life and property caused by the floods. India has assured Nepal of all possible assistance.
During his conversation with Nepal’s leadership, Prime Minister Modi said India stands firmly with the people of Nepal during the difficult period. He assured humanitarian assistance and relief supplies for those affected by the floods.
Modi also expressed his grief over the destruction in Nepal through social media. He said India and Nepal share historic and social ties and that India would stand in solidarity with the people of Nepal during the crisis. Indian agencies are prepared to assist in relief and rescue operations.
The Indian government is preparing to deliver relief supplies to the affected areas. The assistance will prioritise relief and rescue equipment, medical support and essential supplies for people in need.
As part of the relief operation, India is planning to send assistance to Nepal through Indian Air Force transport aircraft. According to the information available, a C-17 Globemaster aircraft may depart from Hindon Airbase for Kathmandu carrying personnel from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), relief supplies and modern rescue equipment.
After reaching Nepal, the relief supplies and equipment will be transported to affected areas with the assistance of the local administration. Preparations are also underway to send food supplies, essential relief materials and medicines through a C-130J Hercules aircraft.
Special paramedical and medical teams of the Indian Army have also been kept ready. If required, these specialist teams may be sent to Nepal for medical assistance and emergency relief operations.
In view of the severe flood situation in Nepal, India has increased vigilance in border areas. According to reports, the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) has deployed several special teams for rescue and relief operations.
Units along the India-Nepal international border have been placed on high alert. Local administrations are also maintaining vigilance amid concerns that flooding in Nepal could affect Indian border states, particularly Bihar. Water levels in rivers originating from Nepal and the potential flood situation are being continuously monitored.
The areas around the Bhote Koshi River and northern Rasuwa are among those reported to have been severely affected by the sudden floods. The b water flow damaged or swept away several roads, vehicles and buildings. Reports have also emerged of some security personnel going missing.
Nepal’s power infrastructure has also reportedly been damaged. According to the Nepal Electricity Authority, several major hydropower projects and transmission lines have suffered damage.
Floods and landslides have also disrupted traffic on several major highways, while some roads have been closed for safety reasons.
