Kerala activates help desk for stranded citizens after Nepal floods kill over 100

The Kerala government has activated a dedicated help desk through NoRKA-Roots to assist stranded Keralites in Nepal after flash floods killed more than 100 people and left hundreds of tourists missing in the Himalayan nation.

NoRKA-Roots, the field agency of the Department of Non-Resident Keralites Affairs, launched the emergency service on instructions from the Chief Minister's Office. Stranded individuals or their families can reach the NoRKA Global Contact Centre at the toll-free number 1800 425 3939 or dial +91 88020 12345 as a missed call from abroad. The Delhi NRK Development Officer has been tasked with coordinating relief and assistance activities.

Coordination with Centre and Indian Embassy

Chief Secretary Bishwanath Sinha is maintaining communication with the Ministry of External Affairs as directed by the Chief Minister. The Chief Minister's Office has asked families unable to contact Malayali tourists in Nepal to inform the CMO directly.

The Indian Embassy in Nepal has opened two special helpline numbers, +977 985 131 6807 and +977 970 910 7500, for Indians affected by the disaster. Embassy officials stated they are in constant touch with the Nepali government to coordinate rescue operations and ensure safe evacuation of Indian nationals in distress.

The catastrophic floods have claimed more than 100 lives so far, with the toll expected to rise as rescue efforts continue. Hundreds of tourists, including foreign nationals, have been reported missing.

Source: The Hindu