Kathmandu: At least 384 travellers, including 105 Indian nationals, have been listed as missing following a flash flood in Nepal’s Bhote Koshi River in Rasuwa district on Wednesday morning, according to preliminary information released by the Nepal Tourism Board.
Authorities, however, have stressed that the figures are preliminary and subject to verification, and being included on the list does not yet confirm that a traveller is physically missing. Tourism officials and security agencies are working to establish the whereabouts and safety of those named.
105 Indians, 37 NRIs Among Travellers Listed Missing
According to the preliminary data, the list comprises 291 foreign nationals and 93 Nepali nationals.
Among foreign travellers, Indians form the largest group, with 105 Indian nationals listed. Another 37 people have been identified as non-resident Indians (NRIs).
The records also include travellers from Australia, the Netherlands, the United States, Malaysia, the United Kingdom and South Africa. Authorities are still working to establish the nationalities of several others.
Nepal Tourism Board Begins Verification Exercise
The Nepal Tourism Board said the initial information was compiled using records received from 10 tourism and travel agencies.
The Tourism Board, Tourist Police and other stakeholders are coordinating with travel agencies, tour guides, local authorities and security agencies to determine whether those on the preliminary list are safe and establish their current locations.
Officials have cautioned families and travellers against drawing conclusions from the list until the verification process is completed.
Travel Agencies Share Details Of Hundreds Of Tourists
According to preliminary agency-wise records, Trekkers Society accounted for 92 travellers, followed by Samrat Tours & Travels with 71 and Leaf Holiday with 55.
Himalayan Glacier listed 52 travellers, Kailash Journey 31, Fishtail Tours & Travels 27 and Alpine Eco Trek 20. Kathmandu Holiday Tours & Travels accounted for 17, Richa Tours & Travels for 12 and Explore Vacation for seven.
The data is expected to be updated as authorities establish contact with travellers and receive more information from affected areas.
Tourists Asked To Follow Official Safety Advisories
Travellers in flood-affected areas have been advised to remain calm, closely follow official updates and comply with instructions issued by local and security authorities.
Those requiring assistance have been asked to contact local police, security agencies, their travel agencies, guides or tour operators.
The flash flood in the Bhote Koshi River has triggered a major response in Rasuwa district, with authorities working to determine the scale of the disaster and account for people who were travelling through the affected region.
