Rescue Operations Underway as 149 Indians Evacuated from Flood-Ravaged Nepal

On Sunday evening, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed that nearly 150 Indian nationals have been rescued from the devastating flash floods that struck Nepal. The situation remains dire as the death toll from the floods and subsequent mudslides, which occurred in the northern Rasuwa district of Nepal on Wednesday, has tragically risen to 768, with almost 3,000 individuals reported missing.

According to the MEA, 403 Indian citizens had managed to safely cross from Nepal into China, while an additional 500 Indians were confirmed safe on the Chinese side of the border. Despite these rescues, the unfolding crisis continues to be a cause for concern, particularly as it has left many, including 275 Indians, unaccounted for.

Efforts to locate the missing and recover victims are being intensified. A specialized technical team from India, engaged in rescue operations at the Langtang hydroelectric project, has successfully retrieved the body of one individual from a tunnel amidst challenging weather conditions. The team is part of coordinated efforts that include the Nepali Army, focusing on multiple hydropower sites in Chilime and Langtang, where over 100 workers are feared trapped.

In a further step to assist in the identification of victims, a 19-member forensics team dispatched from India has begun its work analyzing DNA samples. This team is integral to the identification process for the remains recovered, as the catastrophe has resulted in widespread grief and confusion among families impacted by the disaster. Indian Ambassador to Nepal, Naveen Srivastava, has been actively briefing the team on their mission and the ongoing situation.

The floods hit the mountainous region of Rasuwa, located approximately 120 km from the capital, Kathmandu. This area, known for its rugged terrain and hydroelectric projects, has been severely affected, prompting local authorities and international teams to step up their rescue and recovery operations. As the situation develops, the Indian government is closely monitoring the safety of its citizens and coordinating with Nepalese authorities to ensure that relief efforts are as effective as possible.

Source: scroll.in