Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong has extended his condolences to those affected by deadly flash floods near the Nepal China border, where nine Singaporeans have reportedly been listed as missing.
In a Facebook post on Thursday, 27th August, Mr Wong said he was deeply saddened by the loss of life and devastation caused by the disaster. “My deepest condolences to the families who have lost loved ones, and to all those affected by this tragedy,” he wrote.
The floods and landslides struck the Himalayan border region on Wednesday 26th August, killing at least 165 people after a large wall of mud and rock collapsed into a river and sent floodwaters through villages and towns. More than 1,500 people, including hundreds of foreign tourists, remain missing.
The Nepal Tourism Board said that, as of noon on Thursday, 644 Nepalis and foreign nationals were unaccounted for in Rasuwa. A list published on its website included nine Singaporeans among those missing.
Mr Wong said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) was in close contact with the Nepali and Chinese authorities to provide consular assistance to affected Singaporeans. The ministry was also in contact with the next of kin of those affected.
“Our thoughts are with the people of Nepal and China during this difficult time, and with the authorities and emergency personnel working tirelessly on rescue and recovery efforts,” Mr Wong said. “We hope for the safe return of those still missing.”
Foreign Affairs Minister Vivian Balakrishnan said Singapore stood in solidarity with the people of Nepal and China during the difficult period.
“The Singapore government is putting together a humanitarian assistance package to support relief efforts in Nepal and address the immediate needs of affected communities,” Balakrishnan said in a Facebook post.
Balakrishnan added that the Singapore High Commission was deploying a consular response team to Nepal to provide further assistance on the ground.
The MFA encouraged Singaporeans travelling to or residing in Nepal to eRegister with the ministry, purchase comprehensive travel insurance, and remain in contact with their families, hotels, trekking agencies, guides, or local tour operators.
“Singaporeans in Nepal who require consular assistance should contact the Singapore High Commission in New Delhi or the 24-hour MFA Duty Office,” it said.
The ministry warned that roads, transport, communications, and essential services could be disrupted in affected areas.
“Please check local road and weather conditions before undertaking journeys,” it said.
Dr Balakrishnan advised affected Singaporeans to stay safe and remain vigilant. “Keep a close watch on local developments and follow the advice of the local authorities,” he said. “Please also eRegister with MFA so that we can keep you updated and reach you if necessary.”
Damaged infrastructure across several affected districts has complicated rescue operations. Search and recovery efforts are continuing as authorities work to account for those still missing, including tourists and local residents.
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