Sourav Ganguly Expresses Condolences as Nepal Faces Catastrophic Floods

The recent flash floods in Nepal have resulted in a tragic death toll of 1,252, with thousands still missing. Former cricketer Sourav Ganguly has expressed his condolences, highlighting the devastating impact of the disaster. Rescue operations are ongoing, with over 21,000 personnel deployed to assist. International aid is pouring in, with countries like the United States and India providing essential support. The situation remains critical as efforts continue to locate survivors and recover bodies from the affected regions.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 3, 2026, 18:45 IST

Tragic Loss and Extensive Damage in Nepal

Former Indian cricketer Sourav Ganguly shared his sorrow on Thursday regarding the tragic loss of life and destruction caused by flash floods in Nepal.

Rising Casualties and Missing Persons

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA) reported that the death toll from the floods has reached 1,252, with approximately 4,216 individuals still unaccounted for as of the latest update. These figures reflect the widespread devastation across numerous districts.

Chitwan has recorded the highest number of recovered bodies at 355, followed by Nawalparasi East with 218, Nawalparasi West with 208, Nuwakot with 177, and Rasuwa with 127.

Ganguly's Heartfelt Message

In a statement to the media, Ganguly remarked, "It’s devastating. I hope they recover. Such natural catastrophes are not easy. It’s taken away a lot of lives, and it disrupts the entire system of a nation. So, my prayers are with all of them, and I hope they recover very soon."

Challenges in Identifying Victims

NDRRMA has also reported the recovery of bodies from Gorkha, Dhading, and Tanahun. However, only 95 bodies have been identified and returned to their families, underscoring the ongoing difficulties in victim identification.

The authority indicated that around 11,993 individuals have been rescued, with 5,135 injured receiving medical care. Of these, 301 were treated in hospitals, while the Nepali Army and Armed Police Force provided assistance to 3,206 and 1,628 individuals, respectively.

The list of missing persons includes approximately 900 individuals associated with hydroelectric projects, along with around 583 foreign nationals and 164 Nepalis who were with foreign tourists.

Ongoing Search and Relief Efforts

Search and rescue operations are concentrated in areas impacted by landslides and flooding. Over 21,000 personnel from security forces have been deployed for rescue, search, and relief distribution.

NDRRMA has stated that relief supplies, including food and essential items, are being delivered to affected regions via trucks, vehicles, and helicopters. Aerial operations have also facilitated the movement of supplies within Nuwakot and Rasuwa.

Currently, around 3,948 individuals are residing in holding centres, with 2,981 in Nuwakot, 320 in Rasuwa, 260 in Dhading, and 387 in Kathmandu.

Impact on Infrastructure and Global Support

The floods have inflicted considerable damage on communication infrastructure, with NDRRMA reporting that 110 Nepal Telecom towers and 78 Ncell towers were affected, although most are operational now.

International Aid Arrives

International support continues to flow into Nepal. The United States has dispatched specialized disaster recovery supplies, while India has sent rescue teams, tunnel rescue equipment, and vital medicines.

India's fifth aircraft delivered an 11-member rescue team along with 5.5 tonnes of medical supplies to Nepal. Additionally, a 19-member Indian forensic team is assisting Nepal Police with DNA analysis for victim identification.

The floods, caused by extreme weather and Himalayan hazards, have led to widespread destruction across northern and central Nepal, with rescue teams tirelessly working to find survivors and recover bodies from affected areas and hydropower facilities.