The federal government says 32 Canadian citizens and permanent residents are among those missing after a devastating flash flood and mudslide at the Nepal-Tibet border.
Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand said Friday that no Canadian deaths have been confirmed. Canadian consular officials are working with local authorities, hospitals and trekking companies to gather information and support affected families.
The disaster struck near Gyirong Port, a popular crossing for pilgrims visiting Mount Kailash. Spiritual organization ISHA says nearly 80 people from one of its tour groups are missing, including 12 Canadians — 10 from the Toronto area, one from Montreal and one from Ottawa.
Families say they have been desperately trying to reach loved ones for three days. Two sisters from Coquitlam, B.C., said they last spoke with their parents just hours before the flood during a FaceTime call.
Officials say 579 bodies have been recovered and 1,924 people remain missing, including hundreds of foreign nationals.
Canada has pledged $5 million in emergency humanitarian aid to help provide food, clean water, shelter, blankets and hygiene supplies for survivors.
