India airlifts 10 tonnes of flood relief to Nepal as Modi assures full support
India sends 10 tonnes of HADR aid to flood-hit Nepal after PM Modi's call; NDRF teams deployed in Bihar, UP as rivers swell.
India has dispatched approximately 10 tonnes of humanitarian assistance to Nepal in the wake of devastating flash floods, following a phone call between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Nepalese counterpart, Balendra Shah. The Indian Air Force's C-130J aircraft carried the relief consignment, which includes essential medicines, temporary shelters, blankets, hygiene kits, and solar lamps.
During their conversation, PM Modi conveyed condolences for the loss of lives and reiterated India's readiness to provide "all possible humanitarian assistance." He affirmed that Indian teams are coordinating closely with Nepalese authorities on rescue and relief operations. PM Shah expressed deep appreciation for the solidarity and the generous offer, describing it as a reflection of the enduring friendship between the two nations.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar confirmed the dispatch of the 10-tonne consignment, stating that India stands with Nepal in the face of the challenge. Nepal's Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal also thanked India for the swift response, highlighting the strength of the bilateral partnership.
Meanwhile, the Indian Embassy in Nepal has released helpline numbers for Indian nationals affected by the floods, noting that over 100 Indians are reported missing, including workers at the Trishuli hydropower project. The embassy is engaged with Nepalese authorities to ensure early rescue and relief. In a related development, the Indian Embassy in Beijing has also issued contact points for Indian nationals stranded in the Tibet Autonomous Region following flash floods there.
On the domestic front, flood alerts have been issued in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, which border Nepal. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has deployed additional teams to both states, particularly in districts along the Gandak river, as swollen waters are expected to flow downstream. Currently, nine NDRF teams are positioned in Bihar and eleven in Uttar Pradesh, with more on standby. An advisory noted a rise in water levels at Furke Khola in Nepal, about 160 km from the Indian border.