Nepal floods: MEA says 88 Indians rescued, 287 still missing

Rescue operations underway in flood-hit Nepal as authorities work to evacuate survivors and locate those missing

NEW DELHI: The ministry of external affairs (MEA) on Saturday said that 88 Indian nationals have been rescued so far, while 287 remain missing amid the devastating floods in Nepal. It added that 128 persons of Indian origin are also reported missing. Moreover, the death toll from the floods has risen to 669.Four Indian nationals, Ripu Kumar, Chaneshwar Narzary, Kripa Shankar and Mohammed Minhajuddin, were rescued from a hydropower project in Rasuwa on Saturday and are expected to reach Kathmandu shortly.

Six forensic expert teams from India are expected to reach Kathmandu to assist in analysing DNA samples for identification of mortal remains. The teams will support efforts to identify victims amid the large number of casualties following the floods.A specialised technical team from India, which reached Kathmandu on Friday for tunnel-rescue reconnaissance, began work in the affected area on Saturday.Based on its recommendations, a specialised tunnel rescue team with equipment is expected to reach Nepal on Saturday. The MEA also said 120 Indian nationals crossed into Nepal from China on Saturday.The Indian embassy issued emergency helpline numbers.Those seeking assistance can contact +977 985 131 6807 or +977 970 910 7500. A special control room which functions round-the-clock has been set up to assist those who are stranded.