Leh cloudburst: US expresses grief over deaths; says solidly beside India

Expressing grief over the loss of lives in recent flash floods in Leh, the US today said it stands solidly beside India in its hour of grief.

Meanwhile, a team from the American embassy in New Delhi has travelled to Leh to provide assistance to the US citizens and others.

US ambassador Timothy J Roemer said, "My heart goes out to those who have lost their loved ones and continue to suffer from the hardships caused by this disaster. On behalf of the American people, I offer our deepest condolences to everyone affected. As always, the US stands solidly beside India in its hour of grief."

The American envoy, in a statement, said the mission was working closely with the Indian authorities as well as other governments whose citizens have been affected by the floods to ensure the safety and well-being of the US citizens.

A team of officers from the embassy in the capital has travelled to Leh to provide assistance to US citizens and others in the area, he said.

"We are grateful to the government of India for their assistance on behalf of American citizens affected by this tragedy," Roemer said.