Keralite tourists escape Nepal flash floods after unplanned detour

A group of Malayali tourists from Kerala narrowly escaped devastating flash floods in Nepal after an unplanned detour to the Swayambhunath temple in Kathmandu Valley delayed their travel. The group, members of the Licensed Engineers and Supervisors Federation (LENSFED), was traveling toward Pokhara when they witnessed the Trishuli river carrying away debris and sludge near a bridge.

Kerala Chief Minister VD Satheesan confirmed that 16 individuals have safely returned to Kerala, including a 14-member group from Kochi. Out of 45 travelers accounted for as safe across various transit points in Nepal and India, efforts are ongoing to facilitate the return of others. Seven individuals, including four Australian citizens of Keralite origin, are still being coordinated through the Ministry of External Affairs.

Government agencies, including NORKA Roots and the Delhi Non-Resident Keralites (NRK) Development Office, are providing ground support, including transit logistics and temporary accommodation, to assist the affected citizens.