Nepal Mudslide: Missing in Tibet Tops 550; China Warns of Upstream Risk

The devastating mudslide originating in Nepal has left 558 people missing in China's Tibet Autonomous Region, according to Chinese state broadcaster CCTV. Among the missing are 260 foreign nationals, underscoring the cross-border impact of the disaster.

The incident occurred when a massive wall of mud and rock collapsed into a river near Gyirong, on the border between Tibet and Nepal. This triggered a powerful flash flood that swept through downstream areas in Nepal, causing numerous fatalities, destroying homes, roads, and infrastructure projects. China has officially confirmed three deaths on its side of the border.

Authorities in Tibet have evacuated surrounding villages situated within danger zones and have rescued two individuals. However, concerns remain high due to a potentially hazardous dammed lake located upstream from the disaster site. This lake poses a risk that could complicate ongoing rescue efforts and potentially lead to further secondary events.

China's Ministry of Water Resources has intensified its monitoring and assessment of this lake, situated at the confluence of the Chhochen Khola and Purepu Tsangpo rivers. The goal is to support rescue operations and prevent any further geological instability. In addition to monitoring, China has mobilized fire and rescue teams from Beijing and Chengdu to assist local police and armed forces in relief operations.