Worried Nepalese students in Odisha return home

Odisha Sun Times Bureau
Bhubaneswar, Apr 30:

Hundreds of Nepalese students studying in Odisha’s KiiT deemed university yesterday returned home to earthquake devastated Nepal with heavy hearts.

The students were still here owing to their ongoing examinations.

Some of the students have not yet been able to contact their families back home as the communication has been completely disrupted by the quake. The condition of those who have been able to speak to their near and dear ones only to learn of the loss of life and property are equally worrisome.

“Most of my family had a narrow escape by the grace of god. However, my maternal grandmother was not so lucky. Our house has completely collapsed and the family is living under a tent in a park waiting for relief from government. My family advised me not to come during such a crisis, but I can’t bring myself to desert them at such an hour. I am going there ignoring their advice,” said a visibly upset student Swapna Gupta.

The images of the devastation from the media and social media make things worse. The students, however, were seen braving the misfortune and exuded confidence that they would do their bit to rebuild their homes and nation.

“My family members told me everything is gone. They want me to visit home and contribute in whatever way I can. I have just finished the college examination, but a larger examination awaits for me at home. Being the eldest son of the family, it is time for me to shoulder responsibility,” said another student Rajat Bajracharya.

The students were highly appreciative of the relief and rescue efforts of the Indian government, which stood by them in the hour of need.

KiiT authorities yesterday arranged for their departure from Bhubaneswar railway station. Other students of the university were seen helping these students to load their luggage to the special buses carrying them to the station in an emotionally charged atmosphere.