Two weeks after catastrophic flash floods devastated Nepal’s border regions, six South African citizens remain unaccounted for as search operations continue in difficult terrain.
The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) confirmed on Thursday that there has been no word on the whereabouts of the six nationals since the disaster struck on 26 August.
The missing South Africans are Terricia Govender (33) from Isipingo, Surendranath Maharaj (74), Anitha Devi Maharaj (67), Vivaganathan “Tony” Pillay (66), Janet Pillay (56), and Bhavika Ramjee (43) from East London.
DNA profiles collected for identification
DIRCO has worked with the South African Police Service (SAPS) to collect DNA profiles from biological relatives of the missing citizens. The samples were gathered through the Victim Identification Centre under the SAPS Division: Detectives and Forensic Services.
These profiles have been sent to police in Nepal and Interpol in Kathmandu to assist with potential victim identification.
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“Regrettably, there is still no confirmation from the authorities in Nepal or China/Tibet regarding any of the six South African nationals. We will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates to the families as more information becomes available,” DIRCO said.
South African diplomatic missions in New Delhi, India, and Beijing, China, are liaising with their respective host countries to coordinate the response to the disaster.
Families travel to Nepal in desperate search
Family members of the missing South Africans have travelled to Nepal to search for their loved ones. They have received assistance from local officials, including Superintendent Gagan Shrestha, who has been praised for his support during the difficult time.
Humanitarian organisation Gift of the Givers has been on standby to assist but is following guidance from Nepalese disaster management authorities regarding access to restricted disaster zones.
Disaster claims over 1 400 lives
The flash floods were triggered by an ice-rock avalanche near the Nepal-Tibet border that sent a massive surge of water, mud and ice down the Bhotekoshi and Trishuli river valleys.
The death toll has reached 1 377 people, with more than 5 000 individuals still reported missing across the affected region. Among those unaccounted for are 587 foreign tourists from 34 countries and 188 Nepali nationals, including guides and pilgrims.
Search and rescue operations remain active, though efforts have been hampered by inaccessible terrain, damaged communication networks and debris. The worst-affected districts include Chitwan, Nawalparasi East and West, Nuwakot, Rasuwa, Gorkha, Dhading and Tanahu.
Nepal’s government has emphasised that major tourism hubs such as Pokhara, Lumbini and main trekking regions remain operational and safe for visitors, though travel advisories recommend caution in flood-affected river corridors.
