250 people from Gujarat return home from quake-hit Nepal

As many as 250 people from Gujarat, out of the nearly 550 state residents stranded in quake-hit Nepal, have returned home safely, a senior official said today.

"Nearly 250 people from Gujarat have so far returned to the state from quake-hit Nepal. Around 35 people arrived at the Ahmedabad airport from Delhi this afternoon through a special flight. Apart from them, many others have returned safely during the last 24 hours through flights and buses," Gujarat Relief Commissioner D N Pandey said. The Gujarat government is coordinating with the Centre and airport authorities to facilitate return of people from the state stuck in Nepal and has made arrangements for their stay in the national capital.

"We are in contact with the Centre for the safe evacuation of all Gujaratis from Nepal. Efforts are on to bring back the remaining people using special flights and buses," said Pandey. Upon arrival here today, the passengers shared their experience with media about Nepal during earthquake. "We went to Nepal through a tour operator. As soon as we came out of Lord Pashupatinath temple, the earthquake struck.

We saw many buildings collapse in front of our eyes. Though the main dome of temple was also swaying, it survived the quake. We somehow managed to escape and reach safely here," said Hansaben Patel, who was among the 35-odd passengers arriving here today.