A group of 73 Sri Lankan pilgrims who had travelled to Lumbini, Nepal, via India are scheduled to be repatriated, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The Ministry confirmed that the pilgrims are currently at the India–Nepal border. Due to the suspension of immigration and emigration services in Nepal, officials of the Sri Lankan Embassy have engaged in direct discussions with Nepalese authorities to expedite the necessary arrangements.
The Embassy further reported that the Nepalese Army has already brought the situation under control and has advised the public to remain indoors.
According to the latest information received from the Embassy in Kathmandu, there are a total of 102 Sri Lankans residing in Nepal. The Ministry assured that all Sri Lankans remain safe and that no incidents involving them have been reported so far.
The Embassy has also provided a 24-hour hotline (+977-9851048653) for Sri Lankans in need of assistance.
Meanwhile, the Ministry urged Sri Lankans residing in Nepal to keep an adequate supply of water and dry rations with them, and for those on medication to ensure they carry their medicines at all times.
