Nepal Disaster: Another disaster to hit Nepal soon? Question arise. The threat persists following flash floods in the Bhotekoshi River that caused extensive damage in three districts of Nepal. China has raised an alert regarding this situation. The Ministry of Water Resources in China reported the formation of a large barrier lake near the merging point of the Chochen Khola and Purpu Tsangpo rivers in Nepal, with an estimated water volume of 2 million cubic meters as of Thursday morning, and the lake is already overflowing.
An additional 30 lakh cubic meters of water is anticipated to flow into the lake over the next three days, increasing the risk of breaching.
1. Meeting with Kathmandu-Beijing Ambassadors
In response to the severe flood conditions, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar conducted a special evaluation meeting with a team from the Ministry of External Affairs and the Indian ambassadors in Kathmandu and Beijing. The meeting focused on relief and rescue efforts, as well as ensuring the safety of individuals in the affected regions.
Sharing information on the social media platform ‘X’, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar mentioned, “I chaired a review meeting with the Foreign Secretary, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) team, and the Indian Ambassadors in Kathmandu and Beijing concerning the flood crisis in Nepal. Swift efforts are underway to gather details on the well-being and safety of all Indians in the flood-affected areas.”
2. Assessment of relief operations
Jaishankar mentioned that the Ministry of External Affairs is collaborating with various ministries, state governments, tour operators, and officials engaged in the relief operations. He highlighted that they are in constant communication and working closely with the Nepal government and relevant authorities on relief and rescue initiatives.
3. Assistance in a disaster
India is extending support to Nepal in response to the floods by sending relief supplies. Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar announced that after dispatching an initial 10-ton humanitarian aid shipment on Wednesday, India sent a second 37.5-ton shipment on Thursday to aid in relief and rescue operations in Nepal.
A control room has been set up by the Madhya Pradesh state government in New Delhi to assist residents of Madhya Pradesh present or stranded in Nepal during a crisis or disaster. Helpline numbers, WhatsApp contact, and email addresses have been provided for assistance:
* Helpline Number: 011-26772005
* WhatsApp Number: 9818963273
* Email: [email protected]
These contact details are available for citizens stranded in Nepal or their family members seeking assistance and information.