Emergency Helplines Activated for Indians Stranded in Nepal After Devastating Floods

New Delhi, India Aug 27, 2026 ALN: New Delhi: Multiple state governments, along with the Embassy of India in Kathmandu, have activated emergency helplines to assist affected individuals and families after devastating flash floods struck Nepal's Bhotekoshi River on Wednesday, killing at least 157 people while around 400 remain missing. This natural disaster has highlighted the vulnerabilities faced by communities in the region, particularly in areas prone to extreme weather events.

The mid-morning flash flood wreaked havoc across three districts, sweeping away people, homes, vehicles, and critical infrastructure in one of Nepal's deadliest disasters in recent years. Flash floods, often triggered by heavy rainfall and rapid snowmelt in the Himalayas, pose significant risks to both life and property in Nepal. The Bhotekoshi River, known for its swift currents and steep banks, has previously experienced flooding, but the scale of this incident has raised alarms among disaster management authorities.

The Embassy of India in Nepal has set up helpline numbers +977 985 131 6807, +977 970 910 7500, and +977 981 032 6117, which are also available on WhatsApp. These helplines are crucial for facilitating communication between stranded individuals and their families back home, ensuring that those affected receive timely assistance. The Indian government’s proactive measures reflect its commitment to safeguarding its citizens abroad, especially in crisis situations.

The Government of Karnataka has activated its State Emergency Operation Centre (SEOC) at 1070 or 080-22253707 and is compiling a list of Karnataka residents stranded in Nepal or the Tibet Autonomous Region. This initiative is part of a broader effort by state governments to coordinate relief efforts and track the whereabouts of their citizens, which can be particularly challenging in the aftermath of such disasters.

Telangana has set up a Helpline and Coordination Centre at Telangana Bhavan, New Delhi, where families can reach Vandhana at 9871999044, Ch Chakravarthi at 9949351270, or G Rakshit Naik at 9618597969. These contact points are essential for families seeking information about their loved ones and for coordinating rescue operations.

Families have been asked to share the affected person's name, passport details, mobile number, last known location, tour operator details, and family contact information. This information is vital for rescue teams to locate individuals quickly and efficiently, ensuring that assistance is provided without unnecessary delays.

In West Bengal, the Kolkata Police helpline is 18003455678, with a WhatsApp number at 9874902880. The West Bengal Police can be reached at 033-24793311 and 9147890181. The establishment of these helplines demonstrates the collaborative approach taken by various state governments in responding to the crisis, as they work together to support their citizens.

Citizens of Uttar Pradesh who are stranded or need assistance have been asked to contact 1070. This central helpline serves as a critical resource for those affected, enabling them to connect with local authorities and receive necessary aid.

Maharashtra has set up a toll-free State Control Room at 1070, with a control room number at +91-9321587143. This initiative is part of Maharashtra's broader disaster response strategy, which includes mobilizing resources and personnel to assist in rescue and relief operations.

In Kerala, helpline numbers 9447111844 and 9737132147 have been made available for those seeking assistance. The swift establishment of these helplines showcases the readiness of state governments to respond to emergencies and the importance of effective communication during crises.

Rajasthan's Disaster Management Department has directed families to contact its State Emergency Operation Centre at 1070 or 112, or at 0141-2851960, 0141-2385776, 0141-2385777, 0141-2227296, and 0141-2927392. This multi-channel approach allows families to access support through various means, enhancing the chances of reaching those in need.

Odisha has set up a 24x7 control room in New Delhi, reachable at 011-23012807, 7428135044, and 8527580245. The establishment of a dedicated control room reflects the urgency of the situation and the need for continuous monitoring and support for affected individuals.

The Government of Sikkim has established dedicated helplines for people from Sikkim who may be stranded, affected, or in need of urgent assistance in Nepal. The numbers are 03592201145, 03592202461, and 03592202256. This targeted approach ensures that the unique needs of Sikkimese citizens are addressed promptly.

The scale of those missing has raised concerns that Wednesday's floods could rank among the deadliest disasters in Nepal's modern history. The implications of such a disaster extend beyond immediate loss of life and property; they also include long-term impacts on infrastructure, economy, and community resilience. Nepal, being a country that frequently faces natural disasters, must grapple with the challenges of disaster preparedness and response, as well as the need for sustainable development practices that can mitigate the effects of climate change.

As rescue operations continue, the focus will not only be on locating the missing but also on providing support to those who have lost their homes and livelihoods. The international community, along with local and national authorities, will likely be called upon to assist in recovery efforts, ensuring that affected communities receive the necessary resources to rebuild and recover from this tragedy. The road to recovery will be long and arduous, but with coordinated efforts and support, there is hope for those affected by this devastating event.