Two Irish nationals among tourists feared missing in Nepal after flash flood

By Erik Olsson, Press Association

Two Irish nationals and 12 UK citizens, including a 13-year-old girl, are feared missing following a flash flood in the Rasuwa region of Nepal, the tour operator leading the excursion has said.

Alpine Eco Trek, which offers guided tours and expeditions in Nepal, confirmed that 12 British nationals on its tour across the Nepal-Tibet border were missing on Wednesday.

The country’s tourism board has confirmed they are among the 384 people missing in total.

Ram Kumar Adhikari, the manager of Alpine Eco Trek, said two Irish nationals and four South African nationals who were also on the excursion are believed to be missing.

Speaking to the Press Association from the affected area, Kumar Adhikari said there was “not much info to share at the moment, but yes we have 12 British citizens (supposed) to make entry this morning”.

The age of the missing British citizens ranges from 13 to 65, according to travel logs shared with PA.

The Nepal Tourism Board said its staff and tourist police are “working to verify the whereabouts and safety status of tourists and travellers who were in or travelling through the affected areas”.

A preliminary check found 291 foreign nationals had been reported missing in the affected areas, with more than 100 still to have their nationality confirmed.

In a joint statement with Australia, the EU, Finland, France, Norway and Switzerland, the UK embassy in Nepal said: “We are deeply saddened by the devastating flooding in Rasuwa and Nuwakot districts and surrounding areas.

“Our thoughts are with all those affected by this disaster.

“We express our solidarity with the people of Nepal during this difficult time.

“We encourage all those in affected areas to follow the guidance of local authorities and official safety advisories as the situation continues to evolve.”