69 Maharashtra Citizens Evacuated from Nepal, Expected Back by August 31

Mumbai, India Aug 31, 2026 ALN: Mumbai: As many as 69 citizens from Maharashtra, who were stranded amid the disaster in Nepal and adjoining areas, crossed the China-Nepal border through the Kodari Immigration Centre late Saturday evening and entered Nepal. According to the state government, they are expected to reach Mumbai by August 31.

The ongoing situation in Nepal has been dire, with severe flooding and landslides reported in various regions due to heavy monsoon rains. Such natural disasters often lead to significant disruptions in transportation and communication, leaving many travelers stranded. The State Emergency Operations Centre (SEOC) has registered information about 404 Maharashtra citizens affected by the disaster. Of these, 262 tourists from the state were still stranded in Nepal or China. With the safe evacuation of the latest group of 69 citizens, the state has so far facilitated the return of 142 people.

Evacuation efforts are being carried out under the active follow-up of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and the guidance of Disaster Management Minister Girish Mahajan. The SEOC is coordinating efforts to provide assistance and facilitate the safe return of Maharashtra residents and tourists stranded in disaster-hit areas. This coordination is crucial, as the complexities of international travel, particularly in crisis situations, require meticulous planning and communication among various governmental and non-governmental organizations.

Following the floods in Nepal, the SEOC has been coordinating with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) control room and sharing information about Maharashtra residents and tourists who had travelled to affected areas of Nepal, Tibet, and China. The MEA plays a pivotal role in such situations, as it is responsible for handling the foreign affairs of India and facilitating the safe return of Indian citizens from abroad. Based on the information received, rescue teams are being deployed at various affected locations to trace and assist stranded citizens. This highlights the importance of having a robust disaster response mechanism in place, especially for citizens traveling in regions prone to natural disasters.

Principal Secretary of the Disaster Management Department Vinita Ved Singal and Director Bhalchandra Chavan are closely monitoring the ongoing operations. Their involvement underscores the administrative commitment to ensuring the safety of citizens, as well as the need for effective leadership during emergencies. The state administration is continuously verifying information about stranded citizens through district-level authorities and maintaining regular coordination with travel agencies and the families of affected persons. A 24x7 response mechanism has also been activated through the helpline, which serves as a vital resource for families seeking information about their loved ones.

An Integrated Control Room is coordinating with the Emergency Response Control Room in New Delhi, the MEA control room, and Maharashtra Sadan in New Delhi, ensuring that updated information about stranded citizens is shared with the concerned authorities. This multi-tiered approach to crisis management is essential in ensuring that all relevant parties are informed and can respond promptly to the evolving situation.

The state government has also developed a web-based link to collect information about citizens stranded in Nepal, Tibet, and China. The link has been shared with all district administrations and publicised through various media platforms. Information received through the link is being compiled and verified by the SEOC. This initiative not only aids in gathering data but also enhances transparency and accountability in the government's response efforts.

The state authorities said coordination with both Central and state government agencies, district administrations, travel agencies, and relatives would continue round the clock until all stranded Maharashtra citizens are safely brought back. The collaborative efforts between different levels of government and agencies are crucial in managing such crises effectively. The emotional toll on families of those stranded is significant, and the government’s commitment to keeping them informed and involved is a critical aspect of the response strategy.

In addition to the immediate evacuation efforts, the situation in Nepal raises broader questions about disaster preparedness and response in regions frequently affected by natural calamities. The need for improved infrastructure, better communication systems, and more robust emergency protocols is evident, especially in areas that attract tourists. Ensuring the safety of travelers should be a priority for both local governments and international travel agencies.

The Maharashtra State Emergency Operations Centre helpline: 1070, remains a crucial point of contact for those seeking assistance or information during this challenging time. As the situation continues to evolve, the focus remains on ensuring the safety and well-being of all citizens affected by the disaster.