Hyderabad-Origin NRI Sridevi Vejella Missing in Nepal Flash Floods

A 38-year-old US citizen with roots in Hyderabad, Sridevi Vejella, is among scores of pilgrims missing after flash floods struck the Nepal-Tibet border during their return journey from the Kailash Mansarovar pilgrimage.

Sridevi was travelling back from Mount Kailash alongside a group of 76 other individuals when the disaster occurred. The immigration centre at the Nepal-Tibet border was hit by sudden flash floods, cutting off all communication. Since the floods struck the area, family members have had no contact with Sridevi or any other person travelling in the 77-member group.

Her husband, Deepak Dandu, whose social media profile lists him as a resident of New Jersey in the United States, is travelling to Hyderabad to be with their 13-year-old son. The child had remained in Hyderabad with family while his mother went on the pilgrimage.

Deepak told CBS News that the Kailash Mansarovar yatra had been a lifelong dream for Sridevi. He explained that the trip held deep significance for her, describing the pilgrimage as far more than just an ordinary journey.

According to Deepak, the original family plan was for him to arrive in India, reunite with his wife and son in Hyderabad, and fly back together to the United States on August 31. However, the complete lack of information and contact following the flood disaster prompted him to immediately rush to Hyderabad.

Deepak expressed deep concern for their young son, who is waiting anxiously in Hyderabad for any news regarding his mother's whereabouts. While boarding his flight to India, Deepak stated that the child is going through a very difficult time and noted that the ongoing uncertainty has created an immense emotional strain on the family as they await updates.