Hundreds of travellers reported missing in Nepalese flash floods

The UK Foreign Office has issued advice for travellers in Nepal, after the country was hit by flash floods and mudslides on Wednesday morning (August 26).

 

Latest reports suggest that more than 1,000 people are missing, including 341 foreign nationals from 26 different countries. It is believed 33 are from the UK.

 

The death toll has reportedly risen to at least 165 with rescue and recovery efforts ongoing.

 

A Nepalese tour company, Alpine Eco Trek, has told the Press Association (PA) that 12 Britons are missing from one of its excursions across the Nepal-Tibet border.

 

An emergency Nepal disaster appeal has been created by Intrepid Travel with the operator pledging to match all funds raised up to £50,000.

 

The Intrepid Foundation appeal is in partnership with Australian Red Cross, which is supporting response efforts on the ground.

 

All funds raised will go towards impacted communities, including emergency shelter support, water sanitation and hygiene, first aid and health services.  

Prime minister Andy Burnham urged British nationals in the region to follow guidance from the local authorities and follow government travel advice.

 

He said: “These scenes emerging from along the Nepal-China border are devastating. My thoughts are with all those affected, including the families and loved ones of British nationals missing in this tragedy.

 

“We will do everything we can to support British nationals impacted in the region and are in touch with the relevant authorities to offer support.”

 

The Nepal Tourism Board detailed 10 local tourism businesses who have lost travellers.

 

A statement said: “Following the sudden flash flood in the Bhote Koshi River in Rasuwa at around 8.30am on Wednesday [local time], Nepal Tourism Board, tourist police and tourism stakeholders are working to verify the whereabouts and safety status of tourists and travellers who were in or travelling through the affected areas.

 

“A preliminary agency-wise record received from tourism and travel companies has identified 384 travellers, including 291 foreign nationals and 93 Nepali nationals, who were reported missing from the affected areas. 

 

“The information is being verified and cross-checked in coordination with travel agencies, guides, local authorities and security agencies.”

 

Tourists travelling or staying in Rasuwa, Nuwakot, Dhading, Gorkha, Chitwan and other areas along the Bhote Koshi and Trishuli river corridors have been “strongly urged to exercise extreme caution”.

 

A separate statement added: “Nepal remains committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all visitors. 

 

“At this time, however, the safety of travellers must take priority over travel plans. Tourists already in affected areas are requested to remain calm, stay informed and co-operate fully with local authorities. 

 

“Those planning to visit the affected destinations are encouraged to postpone their travel until official safety conditions are restored. 

 

“Visitors are also encouraged to rely on verified information from government authorities, local administrations, security agencies and responsible tourism operators rather than unverified information circulating on social media.” 

 

Intrepid Travel has a significant operation in Nepal – it runs 26 itineraries in the country and has 76 local team members.

 

However, the operator confirmed that no customers or team members were in the affected regions at the time, and all Intrepid travellers in the country are safely accounted for.   

 

Yalamber Rai, the company’s general manager, Nepal, said: “The scale of this disaster is devastating. 

 

“Communities across the region are grieving the loss of loved ones while also facing significant challenges in the weeks and months ahead. 

 

“Support will be critical to recovery efforts, and we are encouraging anyone who is able to donate to the appeal or help spread the word. Together, we can help ensure affected communities receive the support they need during this incredibly difficult time.”

 

The Foreign Office said that “major flooding in Rasuwa district and the Nepal-China border area caused widespread damage”.

 

“Buildings, roads, other transport and communications infrastructure have been severely damaged. Other areas in Nepal, including Chitwan, have also been affected,” added the Foreign. Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).

 

It said the Nepalese authorities and emergency services are responding and the situation may change rapidly.

 

“If you are travelling in the region, follow the advice of the Nepalese government and local authorities and be alert to the changing situation,” it advised travellers.

 

“The Nepalese government has established a toll-free emergency Nepalese language number, 1234, and a dedicated hotline 1144 accessible in Nepal.

 

“If you are affected and need assistance from the UK government, call from Nepal +977 (0)14237100, and from the UK +44 (0) 207 008 5000.”

 

In a separate travel advisory for China, the FCDO said: “Heavy flooding and landslides have affected Gyirong County in Shigatse, Tibet, near the Nepal border.

 

“There is an ongoing risk to life from flooding, landslides and infrastructure damage. Roads, power supplies and telecommunications have also been disrupted.

 

"Exercise caution and follow the advice of local authorities.”