Nepal flash floods: 66 Maharashtra pilgrims missing, families await news
A massive flash flood in Nepal has left 66 pilgrims from Maharashtra untraced, causing immense uncertainty for their families. The pilgrims were on their way to Kailash Mansarovar when the disaster struck near the Timure immigration center. Rescue operations are ongoing but are hampered by the difficult terrain and damaged infrastructure.
Key Highlights
- 66 Maharashtra pilgrims remain missing after Nepal flash flood.
- The pilgrims were en route to Kailash Mansarovar when disaster struck.
- Rescue efforts are ongoing but face significant challenges.
- Families are anxiously awaiting any news of their loved ones.
- The flash flood occurred near the Timure immigration center on the Nepal-China border.
A devastating flash flood in Nepal has left 66 pilgrims from Maharashtra untraced, sparking growing anxiety among their families. The group, part of Dr. Milind Chitaley's Hills and Trails tour, was traveling in three buses operated by Nepal-based Richa Tours and Travels when the disaster struck near the Timure immigration center on the Nepal-China border. The pilgrims had completed their immigration formalities around 8:45 AM on Wednesday and were awaiting the opening of the Chinese gates to proceed towards Kerung, approximately 35 kilometers ahead, for their Kailash Mansarovar pilgrimage. The flash flood, which swept through Timure, destroyed the immigration complex and surrounding infrastructure, leaving an extensive trail of devastation in the Rasuwa district of Nepal and adjoining Tibet. As of August 28, 2026, there has been no trace of these 66 individuals, causing deep distress to their families across Mumbai, Thane, Nagpur, and Pune.
Eyewitness accounts and official reports indicate that the flood was triggered by a glacial collapse, leading to a massive surge of ice, mud, and rock down the Bhote Koshi river system. The sheer force of the water swept away roads, bridges, settlements, and critical border infrastructure, severely hampering rescue operations. The difficult terrain, damaged communication networks, and the risk of further flooding have created significant obstacles for the search and rescue teams.
Multiple news outlets have reported on the situation, with The Times of India detailing the specific group of 66 pilgrims and their last known location. India Today highlighted a Mumbai doctor couple among those missing, while The Indian Express reported on a Thane couple on their first trip to Nepal who are also unaccounted for. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in India has stated that over 320 Indian nationals and more than 100 people of Indian origin were missing following the floods. The total death toll in Nepal and Tibet has surpassed 600, with hundreds more still missing.
Maharashtra authorities have been actively coordinating efforts to trace the missing tourists from the state. The State Emergency Operation Centre (SEOC) has been providing figures on stranded and untraced tourists. The Bihar government also played a role in the humanitarian effort by facilitating the safe return of around 100 Maharashtra pilgrims who were stranded in Kathmandu.
The pilgrimage to Kailash Mansarovar is a significant event for many Indian devotees, and the disruption caused by this natural disaster has brought the safety concerns associated with such journeys into sharp focus. The Indian Embassy in Kathmandu and state governments have activated helplines to assist families seeking information and to coordinate rescue efforts with Nepal. The situation remains critical, with families clinging to any fragment of information and hoping for the safe return of their loved ones. The scale of the disaster and the ongoing rescue efforts underscore the challenges faced in such remote and disaster-prone regions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many pilgrims from Maharashtra are missing due to the Nepal flash flood?
As of the latest reports, 66 pilgrims from Maharashtra are missing following the flash flood in Nepal.
What was the cause of the flash flood in Nepal?
The flash flood is believed to have been triggered by a massive collapse of ice, rock, and debris from a glacier, which led to a catastrophic surge of water and mud.
Where did the flash flood occur?
The flash flood occurred in the Timure area, near the Nepal-China border, specifically impacting the immigration complex and surrounding regions.
What pilgrimage were the missing individuals undertaking?
The missing pilgrims were on their way to undertake the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.
What is being done to find the missing pilgrims?
Search and rescue operations are underway, involving Nepali and Indian authorities. However, the operations are significantly hampered by the difficult terrain, damaged infrastructure, and adverse weather conditions.