Nepal is battling one of the worst natural disasters in its recent history after devastating flash floods and landslides swept across the Himalayan nation, killing hundreds and leaving thousands missing. The catastrophe, triggered by a glacier collapse and massive surge of water, rock and debris, has destroyed homes, roads, bridges, and critical infrastructure along the Nepal-Tibet border. Nepal’s disaster authorities reported 579 deaths and 1,924 people missing as of August 29, with the broader toll across Nepal and Tibet exceeding 600.
Rescue operations remain challenging as damaged roads and bridges have cut off several areas, while authorities continue to warn of additional flooding. Thousands of people have been rescued, but families remain desperately searching for relatives who are still unaccounted for. More than 500 foreign nationals are among those missing, while hundreds of Indian citizens have also been reported missing or uncontactable.
Amid the unprecedented crisis, India has stepped up its humanitarian assistance to its neighbouring country. Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Nepal’s Prime Minister Balendra Shah and conveyed India’s readiness to provide all possible humanitarian support. India quickly dispatched relief material and essential medicines through Indian Air Force aircraft.
India has since sent additional consignments, taking its relief effort into multiple phases. The latest, the third flight, carried another 10 tonnes of humanitarian assistance to Kathmandu, including essential supplies for people affected by the floods. India has also offered medical and technical support as Nepal intensifies rescue operations.
The disaster has once again highlighted the deep humanitarian and geographical links between India and Nepal. At a time when Nepal is facing enormous loss of life and infrastructure, India’s swift response underlines the principle that a neighbour in distress should never stand alone.
