Maharashtra Coordinates Safe Return of Stranded Tourists in Nepal and China

The Maharashtra State Disaster Management Department has intensified efforts to ensure the safe return of tourists from the state stranded in Kathmandu, Nepal, and Saga in China. State authorities are coordinating with the central government as well as officials in Nepal and China to facilitate travel arrangements through alternative routes.

Tourists hailing from several districts, including Raigad, Ahilyanagar, Nagpur, Nashik, Pune, and Mumbai, have been confirmed safe as officials monitor their journeys back to India.

Among the travellers, a group of 45 tourists from Maharashtra is currently stationed in Chitwan, Nepal. This group includes 27 individuals from Ahilyanagar, 12 from Nashik, five from Pune, and one from Mumbai. According to Sangamner-based tour operator Darshan Gunjal, all members of the group are safe. With routes leading to Kathmandu remaining closed, the group is scheduled to halt overnight in Lumbini before proceeding toward Ayodhya on August 29.

In a separate group, 37 pilgrims affiliated with the Jai Girnari Shivdatt Mandir Trust from Raigad district are safe in Saga, China, after travelling to Nepal for pilgrimage and tourism. Relative Dilip Sheth confirmed that all members, including two doctors, are in good health. The group has departed Saga for Kathmandu via an alternate route to board a scheduled flight to India on August 29.

The Nagpur district administration confirmed that all 106 tourists from the district are safe. Four individuals have already reached Delhi by air, while 102 tourists entered India by road and reached Sitamarhi district in Bihar. They are scheduled to reach Patna and board a train departing at 7 am on August 29 to return to Nagpur.

Additionally, administrative efforts are underway to assist 11 residents from Peth in Nashik district who are currently in Kathmandu. Officials noted that no reports have been received regarding stranded tourists from Washim or Buldhana districts.