Centre closely monitoring flood-situation in Nepal, water levels in reservoirs on Nepal side receding: MHA

Account subscription benefits alongside Premium Stories, Editorials, Opinions and more. Unlock these with Subscription

Union Home Minister Amit Shah said the Government of India was maintaining a close watch on developments after reports of devastation caused by floods in Nepal. File | Photo Credit: ANI

The Centre is closely monitoring the situation arising from a flash flood in Nepal, amid concerns that rising water levels could affect areas along the India-Nepal border, particularly in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) said on Wednesday (August 26, 2026).

Union Home Minister Amit Shah said the Government of India was maintaining a close watch on developments after reports of devastation caused by floods in Nepal. He also spoke with the Chief Ministers of Bihar and Uttar Pradesh to review preparedness measures in areas that could potentially be affected.

In a post on X, Mr. Shah expressed condolences to those affected by the disaster. “The devastation caused by the floods in Nepal is deeply tragic. My condolences are with the families who have lost loved ones in this disaster. The Government of India stands with Nepal in this hour of crisis,” he said.

He added that local administrations, rescue agencies and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) had been placed on high alert in vulnerable border districts. “I spoke with the Chief Ministers of Bihar and Uttar Pradesh regarding the disaster in Nepal. In border areas likely to be affected, the local administration and rescue teams, along with the NDRF, have been placed on high alert,” Mr. Shah said.

According to an advisory issued by the Central Water Commission (CWC), a sudden rise in the water level of Trishuli river at Furke Khola in Nepal, about 160 kilometres from the Indian border, has been reported. The increase is suspected to have been caused by a flash flood or a glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF) event near the Nepal-China border, a statement by NDRF said.

The CWC has warned that the impact of the floodwaters could travel downstream through the Gandak river system and reach parts of India.

State governments in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh have initiated precautionary measures, including evacuation where necessary and support for communities living in areas close to the India-Nepal border. The Centre has advised both States to remain vigilant and continue close monitoring of the evolving situation.

Officials from the MHA, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Ministry of Jal Shakti and Ministry of Defence are engaged in continuous monitoring of the situation.

As per CWC, the water levels in reservoirs on the Nepal side are receding and that the situation remains under control, the MHA said adding that there is currently no cause for panic.

The MEA and the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu have issued emergency helpline numbers for Indian nationals seeking assistance or information. Those requiring help may contact the embassy helplines at +977 985 131 6807 and +977 970 910 7500.

Comments have to be in English, and in full sentences. They cannot be abusive or personal.