Saturday, September 5, 2026

Most pilgrims to Kailash return home via Hilsa and Tatopani

Kathmandu, Sept. 2

Out of estimated 3 thousand people at the time of the disaster who were en-route to and from Mount Kailash, about 2,500 people have already returned through Hilsa and Tatopani, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) informed.

They were mostly pilgrims.

"Remaining people are also being facilitated and some are returning from Lhasa by air," Spokesperson of the Ministry Lok Bahadur Poudel Chhetri informed at a press meet on Wednesday.

Approximately 1,500 Nepali nationals are currently in Kerung and the MoFA is in coordination with the Chinese side for those who want to return early.

Likewise, regarding the 176 Nepali trucks and containers in Kerung, the government is coordinating with the Chinese authorities to facilitate their rerouting through appropriate border points.

About 100 Nepali nationals are missing from the Chinese side of the border on the day of the devastating floods in the Bhotekoshi River that killed 1,114 and left 3,900 people unaccounted for, including over 300 foreign nationals and including those five who are in contact and are safe.

Approximately 590 foreign nationals from 34 countries remain missing, said Chhetri.

Meanwhile, a 19-member Indian Forensic Team continues to work on DNA sample analysis in collaboration with Nepal Police.

A 5-member specialised forensic team from China arrived yesterday and has since joined the ongoing work by the Nepal Police to expedite processing and analysis of DNA samples. To expedite the process, a Disaster Victim Identification Team of six individuals from Singapore has also arrived, while additional 13 members are coming today with DNA testing equipment.

"More members will join this team with high-capacity drones and other logistics on Thursday. An additional Korean Forensic Team has also joined the work recently with necessary equipment and instruments," said the MoFA. 

Published in The Rising Nepal on 3 September 2026.   

No comments:

Post a Comment

Featured Story

Govt prepares primary draft of DRR Policy

Kathmandu, Apr. 29: The government has prepared the preliminary report of the National Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) Policy and Strategic ...