57 Tamil Nadu Pilgrims Missing in Nepal
Families in Kumbakonam await contact as rescue teams search flood-hit region
- 57 pilgrims from Tamil Nadu travelled in three buses towards Tibet.
- Families have gathered at the travel agency office seeking updates.
- Officials say 20 pilgrims are safe and may be airlifted when weather improves.
- Tamil Nadu government is coordinating with the Centre and Indian Embassy in Nepal.
GG News Bureau
Kumbakonam, 27th Aug: Families of 57 pilgrims from Tamil Nadu are anxiously awaiting information after flash floods struck Nepal, disrupting communication with the group travelling towards Tibet.
The pilgrims, who had travelled in three buses organised by Kumbakonam-based Super Yathra, were caught in the disaster-hit region. Communication remains intermittent, leaving families struggling to establish contact with their relatives.
Super Yathra owner Sadiq Ali said rescue officials had informed him that 20 members of the group were safe and would be airlifted once weather conditions improve. Some pilgrims have reportedly been hospitalised, though the exact number remains unclear.
“I am leaving for Kathmandu to bring the pilgrims back,” Ali said.
Kumbakonam Tahsildar Poongodi said the 57 pilgrims were travelling in three buses. While the first bus reportedly crossed safely, communication was lost with the second and third buses after a loud noise was heard in the area.
The Tamil Nadu government has stepped up efforts to establish contact with the pilgrims and ascertain their safety. Chief Minister Vijay expressed shock and sorrow over reports of Tamils and other Indians caught in the Nepal disaster.
The state government is coordinating with the Ministry of External Affairs and the Indian Embassy in Nepal to obtain information and assist the pilgrims. Officials at Tamil Nadu House in Delhi have also been directed to expedite rescue and relief efforts.
Helpline numbers have been issued for families and others seeking information about the affected pilgrims.
