India launches emergency helplines after Nepal floods leave dozens of citizens missing

Heavy monsoon rains have triggered widespread flooding across Nepal’s central and eastern regions, prompting landslides, road blockages and the evacuation of thousands of residents. The sudden surge of water has also stranded a significant number of Indian tourists and workers who were travelling in the affected districts. In response, the Indian government has activated a set of emergency helplines dedicated to locating and assisting its nationals caught in the crisis.

The Ministry of External Affairs announced that two toll‑free numbers – 1800‑111‑222 and 1800‑333‑444 – will operate 24/7, providing a direct channel for families and the stranded individuals themselves to register their status, request rescue, or obtain medical aid. The Indian embassy in Kathmandu, together with its consular staff, is coordinating closely with Nepalese authorities, local police and disaster‑relief agencies to streamline evacuations and repatriation efforts.

According to officials, more than 130 Indian citizens remain unaccounted for after the floods, a figure that includes tourists, students and seasonal workers. The embassy has urged families to contact the helplines with any information that could help locate missing persons. In parallel, the Indian government has dispatched a team of disaster‑response experts to Kathmandu, and Air India has readied chartered flights to transport rescued nationals back to India.

The flooding, described as one of the worst in recent years, has submerged roads, damaged bridges and forced the closure of several border crossings. Nepal’s Prime Minister has appealed for international assistance, and neighboring countries, including India, have pledged material aid, medical supplies and technical support. While rescue operations continue, the newly launched helplines are expected to play a crucial role in keeping families informed and expediting the safe return of Indian citizens.

The situation remains fluid, with authorities monitoring river levels and weather forecasts. Residents in the hardest‑hit districts are being urged to stay in designated shelters until the waters recede, while the Indian consular team maintains a round‑the‑clock presence in Kathmandu to address any emerging needs.