Families of 57 pilgrims from Tamil Nadu are anxiously waiting for information after flash floods in Nepal disrupted a convoy travelling towards Tibet. The pilgrims, who left on a journey organised by a Kumbakonam-based travel agency, were travelling in three buses when the disaster struck.
According to the travel agency, Super Yathra, rescue officials have confirmed that 20 members of the group are safe. Agency owner Sadiq Ali said they are expected to be airlifted once weather conditions improve.
The families of the pilgrims have gathered at the travel agency’s office in Kumbakonam, seeking updates about their relatives. Communication with the affected region has been severely disrupted, making it difficult for officials and families to establish contact.
Kumbakonam Tahsildar Poongodi said the 57 pilgrims were travelling in three buses. While the first bus passed through safely, the other two buses encountered the disaster after a loud noise was heard in the area. Officials have been able to communicate only intermittently because of poor network connectivity.
“57 people had gone in three buses. The first bus went fine. There was a loud noise when the second and third buses crossed. We are unable to establish contact with any of them,” the official said.
Some members of the group have reportedly been taken to hospitals, although the exact number of people still unaccounted for has not been confirmed. Sadiq Ali said he was planning to travel to Kathmandu to assist in bringing the pilgrims back safely.
The disaster has prompted the Tamil Nadu government to step up efforts to trace the affected pilgrims. The state government is coordinating with the Ministry of External Affairs and the Indian Embassy in Nepal to obtain verified information and support rescue operations.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay expressed shock over reports of Tamil and Indian pilgrims being caught in the Nepal disaster. He has also directed officials at Tamil Nadu House in New Delhi to help speed up coordination for rescue and relief efforts.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation as rescue teams work in difficult weather conditions. Families in Tamil Nadu remain hopeful for further information on the safety and whereabouts of the remaining pilgrims.
