Rescue teams are rushing to Gyirong Port in southwest China’s Xizang Autonomous Region after a major mudslide struck the China-Nepal border.
The disaster occurred Wednesday morning in Nepal. Initial estimates reported three deaths and 265 people missing at Gyirong Port by 8 p.m.
Xi Orders Full-Scale Rescue Effort
Chinese President Xi Jinping ordered an all-out search and rescue operation. He also called for the evacuation of people at risk and timely medical treatment for those injured.
Xi stressed the need for stronger monitoring and early warnings. He also urged authorities to conduct scientific rescue operations and prevent secondary disasters.
Vice Premier Zhang Guoqing is leading officials from relevant departments at the site. They are coordinating rescue and disaster-response efforts.
Hundreds of Rescuers Mobilized
Xizang has activated its highest-level emergency response for natural disasters.
The regional emergency management authority has deployed 792 personnel and 152 vehicles. Meanwhile, the regional fire and rescue authority has sent 431 personnel and 72 vehicles.
Rescue teams are equipped with rescue dogs, life scanners, and speed boats. Troops and armed police officers have also joined the operation.
Fleets of rescue vehicles are travelling from Lhasa toward Gyirong, according to Xinhua reporters heading to the affected area.
Emergency Supplies Reach Affected Area
Authorities have begun sending essential supplies to the disaster zone.
By 5:35 p.m., officials had dispatched 8,000 cotton coats, 2,000 tents, 3,000 quilts, and 5,000 moisture-proof mats.
The mudslide also damaged roads leading to the port. Communications and power supplies were disrupted as well. The first group of power-grid repair workers has already reached the site.
China Activates National Emergency Response
The Ministry of Natural Resources activated a Level-II emergency response for geological disasters.
The response is the second-highest level in China’s four-tier emergency system. A ministry team has also travelled to the affected area to support rescue operations.
Furthermore, the National Commission for Disaster Prevention, Reduction and Relief and the Ministry of Emergency Management allocated 30,000 central relief supplies.
The supplies include tents, stoves, clothing, quilts, folding beds, and moisture-proof mats.
Millions Allocated for Disaster Relief
The Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Emergency Management allocated 120 million yuan, or about 17.69 million U.S. dollars, for emergency rescue and relief work.
Meanwhile, the National Development and Reform Commission allocated another 100 million yuan for post-disaster recovery and reconstruction.
China Anneng, a state-owned engineering and rescue company, has also deployed an initial team of 200 rescuers.
The team is carrying multi-functional drones, 3D laser scanners, and life-detection equipment.
Rain Raises Risk of Further Disasters
Authorities continue to monitor weather conditions around Gyirong County.
The local meteorological observatory forecasts continued rainfall from Wednesday evening through Sunday. Officials have warned of possible floods, landslides, and other secondary disasters in low-lying areas.
Rescue operations therefore remain focused on finding missing people while protecting residents and response teams from further risks.
Read More Articles:
Xi Orders Rescue After Xizang Mudslide
