01 September,2026 08:07 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Pic/AFP
The Maharashtra government is continuing efforts to trace and establish contact with 67 citizens from the state who remain unreachable following the devastating floods that struck the Nepal-Tibet region on August 26, 2026.
According to information provided by the Maharashtra State Disaster Management Department, a total of 405 citizens from the state were affected by the disaster and subsequent disruption to travel and communication networks.
Of these, 262 people have returned safely to their homes, while authorities have established contact with another 76 citizens who have been reported safe.
Efforts are continuing to locate the remaining 67 people and coordinate their safe return to India.
Authorities said a special team from the Central Government has arrived in Kathmandu to assist in efforts to trace affected Indian citizens.
The Indian Ambassador to Nepal met the team and issued necessary instructions regarding the ongoing coordination and rescue efforts.
Officials are working to establish contact with stranded citizens, verify their safety and make arrangements for their return to India as travel and communication conditions permit.
The Maharashtra government said it is coordinating with central authorities and other agencies to address difficulties faced by citizens affected by the floods.
According to the government release, the assistance efforts are being carried out following directions from Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.
Authorities have so far been unable to establish direct contact with a group of 60 Maharashtra citizens who had travelled through Richa Tours Pvt Ltd.
In addition, seven other citizens who registered through an official link have also not yet been contacted.
Administrative agencies are continuing efforts to identify their locations and gather information about their status.
The disruption caused by the floods has complicated efforts to reach people in affected areas, particularly where roads, communication networks and other infrastructure have been damaged.
Authorities said efforts to trace those who remain unreachable are continuing through coordination with central agencies and Indian officials in Nepal.
The state government said 262 citizens from Maharashtra have returned home so far.
Another 76 people are in contact with authorities and have been reported safe, although arrangements for their onward journey may still be underway.
Officials said 69 more citizens from Maharashtra are expected to complete their onward journey and reach Mumbai.
On the evening of August 29, 37 citizens from Maharashtra arrived safely in Mumbai after travelling from Saga, near Mansarovar in Tibet.
Separately, 105 citizens have returned to Nagpur, according to the state disaster management authorities.
The figures indicate that a substantial number of people affected by the flooding have either returned to India or have established communication with authorities, while efforts remain focused on those who cannot yet be contacted.
The Chief Minister's Office and the state administration are continuously monitoring developments to ensure the safe return of affected tourists and other citizens.
The State Disaster Management Department said it is coordinating with relevant government agencies to respond to the evolving situation and resolve travel-related difficulties.
The August 26 floods caused widespread disruption in the Nepal-Tibet region, affecting transport routes and communication networks and leaving several Indian tourists and pilgrims stranded.
Authorities have said that efforts will continue until contact is established with all affected citizens from Maharashtra and arrangements are made for their safe return.
"In this difficult situation created by the flood conditions, the State Disaster Management Department is coordinating with relevant agencies to take necessary action for the safe return of stranded citizens," the government release said.
(With inputs from IANS)
