Ten Toronto residents who were part of a group trekking in Nepal are currently unreachable following devastating flash floods in the region. Leslie Crespi, a representative from the Isha Foundation in North America, disclosed that these ten individuals are part of a larger group of 80 foundation members who are still missing. The Canadians represented 12 out of the total members on the trek, as confirmed by Crespi.
Crespi mentioned that since the group reached a Chinese immigration center in Gyirong County, Tibet, and subsequent flash floods struck the area, there has been no communication with any of the group members. Despite efforts to reach out to embassies and officials for updates, no news has been received.
The group, consisting of individuals from 19 different countries, was returning from the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, a significant pilgrimage to Mount Kailash in Tibet with deep cultural and religious importance to various faiths.
Family members of the missing group are in a state of shock, according to Crespi, expressing the unexpected and overwhelming nature of the situation. The community is deeply affected as some members have been part of the foundation for over two decades.
In response to the crisis, Nepali community leaders in Mississauga held an emergency meeting to discuss strategies for locating the missing individuals. They plan to seek assistance from the Canadian government in the search and rescue efforts.
Global Affairs Canada acknowledged the situation, stating that there are approximately 30 Canadians, including citizens and permanent residents, currently unaccounted for in Nepal and Tibet. The number is subject to change as new information emerges, and consular officials are actively working to establish contact and confirm the well-being of the missing individuals. The department is also coordinating with various parties to gather more information and provide necessary support.
GlobalMedic, a relief organization based in Etobicoke, extended their assistance by offering water purification units, emergency kits, and drones to aid those affected by the disaster in Nepal. These resources can help provide clean drinking water, essential supplies, and support in assessing the damage and facilitating search and rescue operations.