Nepal’s ATR-72 passenger plane crashed in the city called Pokhara on Sunday, 20 minutes after taking off from Kathmandu, killing at least 68 people on board at the time. Among the deceased was Russian travel blogger Elena Banduro.
Russian ambassador to Nepal, Alexei Novikov, confirmed the death of four compatriots aboard the crashed plane.
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“Unfortunately, four citizens of the Russian Federation died,” he said. “We are in constant contact with the Nepalese authorities and will provide all necessary assistance to the relatives of the dead Russians.” Three other Russians died on the flight, Viktoria Altunina, Yuri Lugin and Viktor Lagin.
I5 foreigners were among the 72 onboard the plane which came to a tragic end including five Indians, four Russians, two South Koreans and one each from Argentina and France. Nepal’s Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal said he was “deeply saddened by the sad and tragic accident.” Nepalese Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia also tweeted condolences.
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‘The loss of lives in a tragic plane crash in Nepal is extremely unfortunate. My thoughts & prayers are with the families of the bereaved,” said the official.
Who is Elena Banduro?
Elena Banduro, 33, shared her adventures around the globe online. Her latest trip showed her on a plane with a message in English that said, “Go to Nepal.”
She posted about her trip just moments before the tragic flight came down as it approached Pokhara International Airport in Nepal.
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Following her death, Banduro’s social media was full of messages of condolences. She was described as “the brightest, kindest soul we knew.”
The tragic blogger worked as a social media manager and traveled widely.