KATHMANDU, Aug 26: At least 384 travellers, including 105 Indian nationals, have been listed as missing following Wednesday’s flash flood along Nepal’s Bhote Koshi River in Rasuwa district, according to a preliminary list released by the Nepal Tourism Board.
The list includes 291 foreign nationals and 93 Nepali citizens, with India accounting for the largest number of foreign travellers listed as missing. Another 37 people have been identified as non-resident Indians (NRIs).
The Tourism Board cautioned that the list is preliminary and that the whereabouts and safety of those named are still being verified.
The list was compiled from information provided by 10 tourism and travel agencies. The Tourism Board, Tourist Police and other tourism stakeholders are coordinating with travel agencies, guides, local authorities and security agencies to establish the status of the travellers.
The foreign nationals listed include people from Australia, the Netherlands, the United States, Malaysia, the United Kingdom and South Africa, while the nationalities of several others have not yet been confirmed.
Families urged not to draw conclusions
The Tourism Board urged travellers and their families not to draw conclusions from the preliminary list until the verification process is completed.
Tourists in affected areas have been advised to remain calm, follow official updates and comply with safety instructions as rescue and verification efforts continue.
The preliminary agency-wise figures show 92 travellers from Trekkers Society, 71 from Samrat Tours & Travels, 55 from Leaf Holiday, 52 from Himalayan Glacier, 31 from Kailash Journey, 27 from Fishtail Tours & Travels, 20 from Alpine Eco Trek, 17 from Kathmandu Holiday Tours & Travels, 12 from Richa Tours & Travels and seven from Explore Vacation.
The latest development comes as rescue teams continue operations in Rasuwa following the flash flood, which swept through areas along the Bhote Koshi River and damaged roads, bridges and other infrastructure.
People seeking emergency assistance in Nepal can contact 1234 or 1144, while the Tourist Police can be reached at 9851289445. Travellers can also approach the nearest police or security authority, local administration, travel agency, guide or tour operator.
