A catastrophic flash flood struck the Nepal–Tibet border region on August 26 after a glacial collapse and ice-rock avalanche temporarily dammed a mountain river, releasing a massive surge of water, mud, and debris. As of August 27, over 350 people had been confirmed dead in Nepal and three in Tibet, with nearly 1,400 still missing. Thousands of rescue personnel have been deployed, while helicopters are evacuating survivors and delivering aid to communities cut off by destroyed roads and bridges.
ISKCON Nepal has reported losing contact with 17 devotees from the United Kingdom, South Africa, and Ireland who were participating in a pilgrimage to Gosainkunda. It has appealed to the relevant authorities to help locate the pilgrims and confirm their safety.
Gosainkunda is a sacred alpine lake situated at an elevation of 4,380 meters in Nepal’s Rasuwa District. It is a major pilgrimage destination where devotees traditionally bathe in its waters, particularly during the annual Janai Purnima festival.
The devotees currently uncontactable are Anitha Devi Maharaj, Surendranath Maharaj, Kavita Haldia, Pavan Haldia, Nabbi Nandan Das, Sunanda Manirajan, Hema Sunil Amin, Janet Pillay, Vivaganathan Pillay, Surabhi Manmath Padhy, Santosh Sahu, Syna Kumari Sahu, Spandan Sahu, Hemangini Patel, Bipin Patel, Mala Patel, and Veena Bhaskaran.
In a separate statement, ISKCON Nepal said, “Our hearts are with Nepal in this time of tragedy. We are deeply saddened by the devastating flash floods that have struck our beloved Nepal. Our heartfelt condolences to all those who have lost their loved ones. We pray for the missing, for the injured, and for the strength of every family facing this immense loss. May the Lord give peace to the departed souls and courage to all in this hour of grief. Let us come together in prayer, compassion, and service to support those affected. Hare Krishna.”
Read more: https://iskconnews.org/contact-lost-with-17-iskcon-pilgrims-following-catastrophic-flood/
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