Chennai, Aug 26 (IANS) At least 57 pilgrims from Tamil Nadu are stranded in Nepal’s flood-hit Rasuwa district, even as rescue teams struggle to reach several areas following a sharp rise in water levels.
More than 400 Indians are reportedly among those trapped in the northern region, where the floods have claimed at least 17 lives.
The stranded Tamil Nadu pilgrims are currently in the Timure area of Rasuwa district. They are reportedly from Chennai, Kumbakonam and other parts of the state and had travelled to Nepal on a pilgrimage.
Meanwhile, 22 pilgrims from Kumbakonam have been rescued and moved to a Nepal Army camp, where they have been provided temporary accommodation and assistance.
Helicopters have been deployed to evacuate people from the affected areas.
However, rescue operations have been hampered by high water levels, damaged roads and adverse weather conditions.
Officials said helicopters were unable to land in some locations, leaving several groups awaiting evacuation.
Tamil Nadu’s Non-Resident Tamils Welfare Department is coordinating with the Indian and Nepalese authorities to trace and rescue people from the state.
The Tamil Nadu government has also announced emergency helpline numbers for families seeking information or assistance.
People requiring help in connection with the Nepal floods can contact the toll-free number 1800 309 3793. They can also give a missed call to 80690 09901 or 080690 09900.
Preliminary reports said the floods had washed away around 19 bridges, damaged nearly 40 kilometres of roads and swept away about 200 vehicles.
The extensive damage to transport infrastructure has further complicated efforts to reach stranded residents and tourists.
According to a preliminary assessment released by the Nepal Tourism Board, 384 tourists have been reported missing based on information received from tourism stakeholders and travel agencies.
Of them, 291 are foreign nationals and 93 are Nepalese citizens.
Authorities are verifying the figures, and the number of missing or stranded people could change as communication is restored in remote locations.
Indian officials are also collecting details of tourists and pilgrims who may be in the affected areas.
The Nepal Tourism Board has issued emergency contact numbers for tourists and their families.
The emergency helpline can be reached at ‘1234’, while the emergency hotline is ‘1144’. The Tourist Police Unit can be contacted at 9851289445.
–IANS
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