Congress MP Shashi Tharoor, who arrived in Kathmandu on Wednesday, expressed deep concern over the devastation caused by the deadly flash floods in Nepal, saying he was unaware of the scale of the disaster when he travelled to the country.
The severe flooding in northern Nepal has resulted in significant loss of life and widespread destruction. Authorities have reported that more than 170 people have died, while over 800 remain missing as rescue teams continue their operations.
Tharoor reacts after reaching Kathmandu
Tharoor said he travelled to Kathmandu without knowing about the disaster unfolding in the country’s northern areas.
“Took off for Kathmandu yesterday, blissfully unaware of the drama that had taken place in the hills and caused such catastrophic damage,” the Congress leader said in a post on X.
After reaching Kathmandu, Tharoor said he learnt about the extent of the destruction and the number of people affected by the floods.
“Learned on arrival of the loss of life (now confirmed at 160 so far) and the fact that some 2000 or more people are estimated to be missing,” he said.
The Congress MP also welcomed the Indian government’s decision to provide emergency assistance to Nepal amid the crisis.
“I fully support the Indian government’s immediate pledge of relief assistance. Nepal needs all the help it can get,” Tharoor said.
‘My heart goes out to the victims’
Tharoor also expressed concern for Indian nationals who were caught in the floods, particularly those travelling to the region for the Kailash-Mansarovar pilgrimage.
“My heart goes out to the victims and their loved ones, who include large numbers of Indian tourists, including a hundred performing the Kailash-Mansarovar Yatra,” he said.
He further appealed for the safe return of those who remain unaccounted for.
“Prayers for the missing; may they be rescued soon,” Tharoor added.
Nepal flood rescue operations continue
The flash floods struck parts of Nepal’s northern Rasuwa district near the Tibet border, affecting areas along the Bhote Koshi and Trishuli rivers. The disaster has damaged infrastructure and disrupted road connectivity, creating additional challenges for rescue teams.
Nepalese authorities have reported extensive damage to bridges and roads, while the country’s army has been using helicopters to evacuate people trapped in affected areas.
India has also stepped up its humanitarian response and is coordinating with Nepalese authorities over rescue and relief operations.
