PM Modi assures Nepal of all possible humanitarian assistance after devastating flash floods
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday spoke to Nepal’s Prime Minister Balendra Shah and assured the neighbouring country of “all possible humanitarian assistance” following catastrophic flash floods that swept through northern districts bordering Tibet.
In a post on X after the conversation, Modi said: “Spoke to Prime Minister Balendra Shah and conveyed condolences on the loss of lives due to the floods in Nepal. The people of India stand in solidarity with their sisters and brothers in Nepal at this difficult time. India is ready to provide all possible humanitarian assistance to Nepal. Our teams are coordinating closely on rescue and relief efforts.”
A sudden surge in the Bhote Koshi River early Wednesday morning, originating from the Tibet side, triggered massive flash floods that devastated settlements in Rasuwa district and affected neighbouring Dhading and Nuwakot. Officials reported that the deluge washed away homes, vehicles, roads and bridges, and damaged at least a dozen hydropower projects. Preliminary assessments put the death toll in the range of several to over 20, with the number expected to rise. Nearly 400 people, including around 105 Indian nationals and other foreign tourists, were reported missing. Many of the Indians were pilgrims travelling for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.
The Indian Embassy in Kathmandu said it was closely coordinating with Nepalese authorities for the early rescue and relief of affected Indian nationals. Two helpline numbers — +977 985 131 6807 and +977 970 910 7500 — were activated for assistance and information.
Government sources indicated that India is preparing to dispatch emergency relief material, including medicines, rations, tents and blankets, under its Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) framework. Indian Air Force C-130 and C-17 aircraft were kept on standby, with an initial sortie planned, while National Disaster Response Force teams remained ready for deployment if required.
Nepal’s Army, Armed Police Force and police have been deployed for rescue operations, with helicopters airlifted to the affected zones. Authorities placed downstream areas on high alert and urged residents near riverbanks to move to safer locations. China also reported casualties and damage on its side of the border following a related mudslide.
The disaster underscores the close coordination between India and Nepal during natural calamities. Indian teams continue to work with their Nepalese counterparts as rescue and relief operations intensify in the flood-ravaged Himalayan regions.
