Nepal floods 2025: India ready to extend full aid, 57 Tamil Nadu tourists missing
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
H. Raja, a senior leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Tamil Nadu, has said that India stands ready to provide all necessary assistance to Nepal as the Himalayan nation battles catastrophic floods that have claimed lives and caused extensive destruction of property. Raja made the statement on 27 August via a post on X, expressing deep grief over the unfolding humanitarian crisis.
Scale of the Disaster
According to Raja, the accelerated melting of glaciers has triggered unprecedented flooding across several of Nepal's major river systems, including the Gandaki, Trishuli, and Koshi rivers. Visuals circulating widely show houses, commercial buildings, flyovers, arterial roads, and vehicles being swept away by raging floodwaters — scenes he described as deeply distressing.
Several people have reportedly lost their lives in the floods, while a significant number of Nepalese citizens and Indian tourists remain missing, according to reports. The scale of the destruction has, Raja said, caused anguish among people across the world.
Tamil Nadu Tourists Stranded in Nepal
Raja specifically flagged the situation of travellers from Tamil Nadu, noting that 57 people from the state had travelled to Nepal and their whereabouts remain a cause for concern. 'The Almighty should protect all of them and ensure that they return home safely,' he said. He prayed for the swift location of the missing by rescue teams and extended condolences to families who have lost loved ones.
India's Assistance and Bihar Alert
The Centre has conveyed its readiness to support Nepal with relief and rescue operations, Raja said. He added that several other countries have also expressed concern and offered support following the disaster.
Notably, the Centre is also taking precautionary measures in response to warnings that the flooding in Nepal could spill over and affect Bihar, which shares a long border with Nepal. Authorities are reportedly monitoring water levels closely to minimise the impact on communities in vulnerable areas along the border region.
Call for Cross-Border Solidarity
Raja underscored that natural disasters transcend national borders, languages, and geographical boundaries, and called on the global community to stand in solidarity with the flood-affected people of Nepal. 'During this difficult time, we pray for the speedy recovery of Nepal and its people. We also pray to the Almighty for the souls of those who lost their lives in this devastating natural calamity to rest in peace,' he said, reiterating India's commitment to stand with Nepal through the humanitarian crisis.
The situation in Nepal continues to evolve, with relief and rescue operations ongoing and the full extent of the damage yet to be assessed.