Immediate Efforts Underway to Bring Back Telugu People Stranded in Nepal
In response to the unfolding crisis in Nepal, Education and IT Minister Nara Lokesh has swiftly initiated measures to facilitate the safe return of 215 Telugu citizens stranded in various parts of the country. During a high-level review meeting at the RTGS center in the Secretariat, Minister Lokesh met with senior officials from AP Bhavan and other state departments to address the crisis and expedite repatriation efforts.
The stranded citizens are located in regions including Baffal, Similkot, Pashupati Nagar, and Pingalasthan. Although in regular contact with authorities and confirmed to be safe, the Minister stressed the need for continuous monitoring of their welfare. “We will gather updates on their food, security, and well-being every two hours to ensure we can act quickly if necessary,” Minister Lokesh stated.
To streamline the repatriation process, the Minister instructed officials to compile a detailed list of stranded individuals, including their hometowns in Andhra Pradesh. In an effort to ensure effective communication, special call centers and WhatsApp numbers will be established, with district collectors assigned to regularly review the situation.
In a show of personal commitment, Minister Lokesh directly contacted several stranded individuals, including Suryaprabha, a resident of Visakhapatnam. Suryaprabha, who had been visiting Muktinath, confirmed that she and her group were safely accommodated in a hotel after being stranded. “We are in touch with the group, and we assured them that special flights will be arranged for their safe return,” Lokesh said.
The Andhra Pradesh government is working closely with India’s Ambassador to Nepal, Naveen Srivastava, and maintaining constant communication with the embassy to ensure smooth coordination of the evacuation process. Minister Lokesh confirmed that arrangements are underway for special flights to bring stranded citizens back to Andhra Pradesh, in coordination with central agencies.
Helplines have been set up for those seeking assistance. The Indian embassy in Kathmandu can be contacted at +977-9808602881 and +977-9810326134 (available via calls and WhatsApp). Telugu citizens may also reach the Andhra Pradesh Bhavan in Delhi at +91-9818395787. Additionally, the Andhra Pradesh Non-Resident Telugu Society (APNRTS) has activated its 24/7 helpline at 0863-2340678, WhatsApp +91-8500027678, and email at helpline@apnrts.com and info@apnrts.com.
Minister Lokesh emphasized that ensuring the safety of Telugu citizens remains the highest priority. “We are committed to working around the clock with central agencies and the Indian embassy to bring our people back home as soon as possible,” he assured. As the situation continues to evolve, the Andhra Pradesh government remains focused on swiftly resolving the crisis and ensuring the safe return of its citizens.