The Union government has asked all state Chief Secretaries to compile details of Indians who may be missing following the devastating flash floods in Nepal on Wednesday, sources said.
The Union Home Ministry has asked states to urgently identify people who may have been in the affected areas and could be unaccounted for. The information sought includes the names and contact numbers of the individuals as well as their family members.
Details to help trace missing Indians
The Centre has asked states to share the information through private communication channels. The move is intended to help the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) contact families and coordinate efforts to establish the whereabouts and safety of those who may have been caught in the disaster.
The request comes as rescue teams in Nepal continue searching areas hit by a massive surge of water, mud and debris.
160 killed in Nepal floods
At least 160 people have died in Nepal, while hundreds remain missing following the disaster. The flash flood followed a massive ice-rock avalanche near the Nepal-China border, sending water, sediment and boulders through the Bhote Koshi and Trishuli river systems.
Water levels reportedly rose by as much as nine metres within 30 minutes, adding to the destruction along the river corridors.
Many of those reported missing are foreign tourists, according to officials.
Satellite images point to glacier collapse
Experts examining satellite imagery believe the disaster may have started when a large section of a glacier broke away and fell onto the valley floor. The United States Geological Survey has also said the event was caused by a glacial collapse that triggered a debris flow.
Surveillance footage from the Chinese side of the border showed a huge mass of mud and debris sweeping through the area. Several people could be seen running as the surge engulfed buildings and carried away vehicles.
The sudden flow struck settlements along the paths of the Bhote Koshi and Trishuli rivers, leaving extensive damage in its wake.
As Nepal continues rescue operations, the Centre's effort to gather information from states is aimed at helping authorities identify missing Indians and maintain contact with their families.