PM Modi Speaks To Balen Shah After Nepal Floods, India To Send Aid

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has held a high level telephonic conversation with Nepal Prime Minister Balen Shah following the massive destruction caused by sudden floods in Nepal. The natural disaster, which struck on Wednesday, has resulted in a significant loss of life and property across various regions of the Himalayan nation. According to the latest reports, at least 22 people have been confirmed dead so far, while hundreds of others remain missing. Among those missing are more than 100 Indian nationals, causing deep concern for the Indian government. During the conversation, Prime Minister Modi expressed his deep condolences for the lives lost and assured the Nepalese leadership of India's unwavering support during this hour of crisis.

Devastation Near Nepal China Border

The flash floods, which originated in the border areas between Nepal and China, have caused widespread havoc. The sudden surge of water has swept away everything in its path, leading to the confirmed deaths of 22 individuals. The scale of the tragedy is further highlighted by the fact that approximately 300 foreign tourists have gone missing since the floods hit. Among these missing tourists, at least 105 are confirmed to be Indian citizens. On top of that, more than 90 Nepalese citizens are also reported missing after being caught in the deluge. The situation remains critical as rescue operations continue in the difficult terrain of the border regions.

PM Modi Assures Humanitarian Assistance

In his discussion with Nepal Prime Minister Balen Shah, Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed the sympathies of the people of India. He emphasized that India stands in solidarity with its neighbor during this difficult time. PM Modi assured that India is ready to provide all possible humanitarian and relief assistance to help Nepal recover from the disaster. Government sources have indicated that India is already preparing to dispatch relief materials as quickly as possible. Taking to social media, PM Modi stated that he spoke with Prime Minister Balen Shah and expressed condolences over the loss of lives and property. He mentioned that the people of India stand with their brothers and sisters in Nepal and that rescue and relief teams are working together to manage the situation.

SSB Deploys 18 Teams for Rescue Operations

Following the reports of destruction, the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) has taken immediate action. Sources from PTI have confirmed that the SSB has deployed 18 specialized teams in the border areas to assist in rescue and relief efforts. The border security force has put all its units along the 1,751 kilometer long international border on high alert. This move is aimed at ensuring a swift response to any emergencies and assisting those affected by the floods. Also, an alert has also been issued in the neighboring Indian state of Bihar, as the floodwaters from Nepal are expected to impact the downstream regions.

Worst Affected Areas and Infrastructure Damage

The most severe impact of the flash floods has been observed in the areas situated along the banks of the Bhote Koshi river. The sudden rise in water levels has caused immense destruction in these settlements. In Northern Rasuwa, four personnel of the Nepal Armed Police Force, who were stationed at a border outpost, have been reported missing after the flood hit, while the force of the water was so intense that it washed away numerous cars and buildings in the vicinity. The Nepal Electricity Authority has also reported significant damage to its infrastructure, stating that six major hydro projects and several transmission lines have been severely affected. Consequently, many major highways in Nepal have been closed to traffic due to the damage and the ongoing risk of further flooding.