The number of tourists and travellers reported missing following devastating flash floods in Nepal has risen to 644, according to the latest preliminary figures released by the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB).
The NTB said the missing include 517 foreign nationals and 127 Nepalis who were in or travelling through areas affected by flooding along the Bhotekoshi and Trishuli rivers. The figures were updated as of 12 noon on Thursday, August 27.
The latest figure represents a sharp increase from the 384 travellers initially reported missing on Wednesday. The NTB stressed that the figures are based on preliminary records received from trekking and travel companies and are still being verified with travel agencies, guides, local authorities and security agencies.
According to the country-wise list, 178 Indian nationals are reported missing, along with 65 Americans, 53 Ukrainians, 51 Malaysians, 35 Australians, 33 British nationals and 25 Canadians.
The list also includes travellers from Germany, Russia, Singapore, South Africa, Latvia, Japan, New Zealand, France, Belgium, Spain and several other countries.
The flash floods struck at around 8:30 a.m. on Wednesday, August 26, affecting riverside areas in Rasuwa, Nuwakot, Dhading and Gorkha districts.
The Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, Nepal Tourism Board, Tourist Police and other agencies are working to establish the whereabouts and safety of those reported missing, while rescue and evacuation operations continue.
The NTB said riverside areas along the Bhotekoshi and Trishuli rivers in the four affected districts have suffered severe damage, while areas away from the affected corridors remain largely unaffected.
The tourism board has urged travellers to follow official safety instructions as authorities continue search, rescue and verification efforts. (Newswire)
