130-140 Indians Reported Missing in Nepal Floods: Karnataka Home Minister Priyank Kharge

Karnataka Home Minister Priyank Kharge announced on Thursday that approximately 130 to 140 Indians are reported missing due to flash floods in Nepal, although these numbers are yet to be confirmed.

Kharge stated that the state government is coordinating with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) to collect information on individuals from Karnataka who may be stranded in Nepal. “Currently, reports indicate that around 130 to 140 Indians are unaccounted for in Nepal’s floods, but these figures need verification. The government is in contact with the MEA, which has released three helpline numbers, accessible via WhatsApp, to assist residents,” Kharge said.

The minister noted that the exact number of Karnataka residents affected remains uncertain. Reports have emerged from Belagavi and Kalaburagi regarding individuals who may be trapped in Nepal. “We have received information suggesting that some residents from Belagavi may be in Nepal, but this is not definite. In Kalaburagi, two individuals from Chincholi are confirmed to be stuck, as reported to our Superintendent of Police,” he added.

Kharge encouraged anyone with information about missing residents from Karnataka to reach out to local police stations or district Superintendents of Police. “If you have any information regarding our residents missing in Nepal, please contact your local police station or the district SP as soon as possible. We will ensure that appropriate communication channels are available for their families and friends,” he said.

The Karnataka government has activated its State Emergency Operation Centre (SEOC) at 1070 and 080-22253707 to offer assistance to those stranded in Nepal or the Tibet Autonomous Region. Additionally, multiple state governments and the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu have established emergency helplines in response to the catastrophic flash floods that have severely impacted the Bhote Koshi River region, causing significant casualties and damage.

The Embassy of India in Nepal has set up helpline numbers: +977 985 131 6807, +977 970 910 7500, and +977 981 032 6117, which are also available on WhatsApp.

Reports indicate that Nepal has been severely affected by flash floods, leading to loss of life, displacement, and extensive infrastructure damage. As of now, 175 bodies have been recovered, with many locals and tourists still reported missing. A total of approximately 476 individuals from 28 countries are unaccounted for, although these figures are still being verified as rescue operations progress.

In response, India has increased its humanitarian assistance to Nepal, with the MEA announcing that a second flight carrying 37.5 tonnes of humanitarian aid, including medicines and food supplies, has been dispatched to the affected country.

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