Daijiworld Media Network - Kathmandu
Kathmandu, Aug 29: Nepal President Ramchandra Paudel on Saturday thanked his Indian counterpart Droupadi Murmu and the Government of India for expressing solidarity and extending support following the devastating flash floods that have claimed hundreds of lives and caused widespread destruction in Nepal.
"On behalf of the Government and the people of Nepal, I extend our deepest gratitude to Your Excellency Smt Droupadi Murmu for your kind concern and also for the generous support and solidarity extended by your government following the recent calamity in Nepal," the Office of the President of Nepal posted on X.
Paudel also conveyed condolences over the loss of Indian lives in the disaster.
"We also offer our heartfelt condolences and profound sympathy to the Government and the people of India for the tragic loss of Indian lives in the disaster of August 26, 2026," he said.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Friday that 149 Indian nationals had safely crossed into Nepal from China, while 320 people continued to remain missing or uncontactable following the deadly floods.
The death toll from the flash floods reached 616 on Saturday morning, while hundreds remained missing, local media reported, citing officials.
The massive flooding in Nepal's Rasuwa district originated in the Tibetan region of China and swept through the transboundary Bhote Koshi River, leaving widespread destruction in its wake.
Following the disaster, President Murmu on Wednesday expressed solidarity with Nepal and reaffirmed India's readiness to assist in relief and rescue operations.
"I convey my deepest sympathies to Rt Hon President Mr. Ramchandra Paudel and the people of Nepal on the devastation caused by the flash floods today. We express our solidarity with Nepal at this difficult hour. India stands ready to support the relief and rescue efforts of the Government of Nepal for those affected by this calamity," the President's Secretariat posted on X.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also spoke with Nepali Prime Minister Balendra Shah on Wednesday and conveyed condolences over the loss of lives in the floods. He assured Nepal of India's support and offered all possible humanitarian assistance.
"Spoke to Prime Minister Balendra Shah and conveyed condolences on the loss of lives due to the floods in Nepal. The people of India stand in solidarity with their sisters and brothers in Nepal at this difficult time," Modi posted on X.
"India is ready to provide all possible humanitarian assistance to Nepal. Our teams are coordinating closely on rescue and relief efforts," he added.