KAMPALA — Nepal’s Honorary Consul to Uganda, Dr Sudhir Ruparelia, has expressed solidarity with victims of the devastating floods that have swept parts of Nepal and the Himalayan region, extending condolences to families who have lost loved ones.
Dr Ruparelia, who serves as Nepal’s Honorary Consul in Uganda, said his thoughts were with communities affected by the disaster as rescue teams continued searching for missing people and responding to the extensive destruction.
“I am deeply saddened by the devastating floods in Nepal. My heartfelt condolences go to the families who have lost loved ones, and my thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by this tragedy,” Dr Ruparelia said.
He also commended the Nepalese government, emergency responders, volunteers and members of the public who have been involved in rescue and relief efforts.
“I commend the Government, rescue teams, volunteers and citizens for their courage and tireless efforts,” he said.
The floods followed a catastrophic glacial and rock collapse in the Himalayan region that sent torrents of water, mud and debris through affected communities, destroying homes and critical infrastructure.
The disaster has left a trail of destruction across parts of Nepal and neighbouring Tibet, with roads, bridges, power infrastructure and other facilities damaged or destroyed. Rescue operations have been complicated by difficult terrain, unstable ground and continuing flood risks.
By Monday, the combined death toll in Nepal and China had surpassed 900, while more than 4,700 people were reported missing, according to the Associated Press. Rescue teams were also working to reach hundreds of workers believed to be trapped in hydropower tunnels in Nepal.
The scale of the disaster has prompted renewed concerns about disaster preparedness in the Himalayan region, particularly the need for stronger early-warning systems and improved monitoring of glaciers and other high-altitude hazards.
Nepal has also warned of possible fresh flooding in some affected areas as water levels rise in rivers, adding to the challenges facing communities already affected by the disaster.
Dr Ruparelia called for continued support for the people of Nepal as rescue and recovery operations continue.
“At this difficult time, we stand in solidarity with the people of Nepal and pray for their safety, strength and swift recovery,” he said.
His message comes as part of his diplomatic responsibilities as Nepal’s Honorary Consul in Uganda, a role that includes supporting relations between Uganda and Nepal and assisting in strengthening people-to-people and commercial ties.
Dr Ruparelia was appointed Nepal’s Honorary Consul in Uganda in 2020, according to previous reports on his appointment.
The honorary consular role also provides a link between the Nepalese community in Uganda and the authorities of the South Asian country.
Beyond the immediate rescue operation, Nepal faces a major recovery and reconstruction challenge following the destruction caused by the floods.
The disaster has affected infrastructure critical to transport, electricity and local livelihoods, with the damage expected to place additional pressure on communities and the country’s economy.
For now, rescue agencies remain focused on locating missing people, assisting survivors and providing support to communities affected by the floods.
Dr Ruparelia said the immediate priority should remain the safety of those affected and support for families dealing with loss and displacement.
His message represents a show of solidarity from Uganda to the people of Nepal as the country confronts one of its most serious recent humanitarian emergencies.