384 tourists, including 93 Nepalis, go missing after flash flood in Bhotekoshi River

KATHMANDU: A total of 384 tourists, including 93 Nepalis, have gone missing after a massive flash flood in the Bhotekoshi River on Wednesday morning, Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) said.

NTB Officiating Chief Executive Officer Hikmat Singh Ayer said contact was lost with the tourists. They were travelling to Gosainkunda and Kailash Mansarovar with various travel companies. Tourism police, local administrative personnel and security agencies have been deployed across the affected zones to check on the welfare of the missing individuals.

Data released by the NTB shows the missing include 92 tourists travelling with Trekker Society, 71 with Samrat Tours and Travel, 55 with Leaf Holiday, 52 with Himalayan Glacier, 31 with Kailash Journey, 27 with Fishtail Tours and Travel, 20 with Alpine Eco Trek, 17 with Kathmandu Holiday Tours and Travel, 12 with Richa Tours and Travel and seven with Explore Vacation.

The flood has caused major damage to settlements, police posts and a customs office in the Timure and Syafrubesi areas. Key roads and bridges linking to the Rasuwagadhi border checkpoint have also been damaged by the floodwaters.

The NTB has asked anyone requiring information or assistance to contact its toll-free number 1234, hotline 1144, or the tourism police directly on 9851289445.

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