India, August 27, 2026 : The Centre has stepped up its monitoring of the flash flood situation in Nepal amid warnings that floodwaters could move downstream into India through the Gandak river.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah spoke with the Chief Ministers of Bihar and Uttar Pradesh to assess preparedness in border areas that could be affected by rising water levels. Local administrations, rescue agencies and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) have been placed on high alert in vulnerable locations.
In a post on X, Shah described the destruction caused by the floods in Nepal as “deeply tragic” and offered condolences to the families of those who lost their lives. He also said that the Government of India stands with Nepal during the crisis.
The Central Water Commission (CWC) has reported a sudden rise in the water level of the Trishuli river at Furke Khola in Nepal, located around 160 km from the Indian border. The rise is suspected to be linked to flash flood or glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF) activity near the Nepal-China border.
According to the CWC advisory, the additional water could flow downstream through the Gandak river and potentially impact parts of India, particularly areas in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh.
Both states have taken precautionary steps, including evacuation measures and assistance for communities living in vulnerable areas close to the India-Nepal border. Authorities have been directed to maintain close surveillance of water levels and remain prepared for any change in the situation.
Officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Ministry of Jal Shakti and Ministry of Defence (MoD) are continuing to coordinate and monitor developments.
The CWC said that reservoir levels on the Nepal side were showing a decline and that the situation was currently under control. Authorities have also urged people not to panic while maintaining necessary precautions.
Meanwhile, concerns have grown over Indian nationals affected by the disaster in Nepal. Reports indicate that some Indian tourists are among those missing following the flash floods.
The Ministry of External Affairs and the Embassy of India in Kathmandu have issued emergency contact numbers for Indian citizens seeking assistance.
Indian nationals requiring help can contact the Indian Embassy at +977 985 131 6807 or +977 970 910 7500.
