Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong has confirmed that at least 34 Australians are missing following deadly flash floods that swept through the Nepal-Tibet border region. The announcement came as the government works to engage with the families of those affected.
Wong stated that additional Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (Dfat) personnel have been deployed to the area to support the response. She acknowledged that many tourists travel to the region for trekking opportunities and spiritual reasons, but said she does not want to confirm details of the missing Australians until the government has spoken with their next of kin.
Government Response and Deployment
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese also addressed the situation, confirming that 34 Australians are among hundreds of people missing in the deadly flash floods. The government is coordinating with local authorities and international partners to locate the missing individuals.
The flash floods occurred along the Nepal-Tibet border, a popular destination for trekkers. The region's rugged terrain and sudden weather changes have contributed to the difficulty of search and rescue operations.
Impact on Tourists and Local Communities
Reports indicate that children as young as 11 are among the Australian tour group missing after the flash flooding. The disaster has affected both tourists and local communities, with hundreds of people unaccounted for.
Wong emphasized the government's commitment to providing consular assistance to affected families. She noted that Dfat personnel are working on the ground to gather information and support rescue efforts.
Ongoing Search and Next Steps
The search for the missing Australians continues as authorities navigate challenging conditions. Wong reiterated that the government is prioritizing communication with families before releasing further details.
The full scale of the disaster is still emerging, and officials are urging caution as rescue operations proceed. The government has not yet provided a timeline for when more information will be available, but additional Dfat resources are being directed to the region.
