Nepal floods: 21 Tamil Nadu pilgrims rescued, over 300 Indians still missing

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Friday received a group of 21 pilgrims from Tamil Nadu at Delhi airport, who were rescued by the Nepal Army from the devastating flash floods along the Nepal-Tibet border. The pilgrims had travelled to Nepal for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.

Speaking to reporters, Mr. Jaishankar said the group was first brought to Kathmandu after their rescue, with the Indian Embassy facilitating their return to India. He noted that the pilgrims recounted their ordeal, expressing gratitude towards the Nepal Army for the difficult rescue operation.

The minister stated that slightly over 300 Indians remain uncontactable, with the number fluctuating around 315. So far, approximately 85 Indians have been rescued from various locations, including the group of 21 who arrived on Friday.

India has extended a range of support offers to Nepal, which are currently being evaluated by the Nepalese government. Mr. Jaishankar said a team of tunnelling experts is being sent, as there is a possibility of people trapped in a tunnel at a hydroelectric project. India also plans to supply Bailey Bridges and may deploy medical teams and NDRF personnel if required.

A third flight carrying 10 tonnes of humanitarian assistance, including portable generator sets, dignity kits, food packets, and water purification tablets, departed for Kathmandu on Friday. The flight also carried an 11-member team of doctors, paramedics, and a reconnaissance team for tunnel rescue operations.

The massive flash floods, which originated from Tibet, swept through central Nepal on Wednesday, destroying towns, bridges, and hydropower projects. The death toll has risen to 547, with search operations continuing cautiously due to the risk of fresh floods. The MEA confirmed that 96 Indian nationals stranded on the Chinese side have safely crossed over to Nepal by land route.