KATHMANDU: Chinese President Xi Jinping has directed relevant authorities to urgently step up search, rescue and relief operations following flooding along the Nepal-China border in Tibet that has affected communities on both sides.
According to Chinese state media, a massive mudslide originating from the Nepal side struck Gyirong Port in Gyirong County of Shigatse, Tibet, at around 10:30 am on Wednesday. The incident reportedly caused significant casualties, with several people still missing.
Following the disaster, Xi instructed authorities to make every effort to locate those missing, evacuate residents in danger and provide medical treatment to the injured in order to minimize casualties.
Xi stressed that China is currently in a critical period for flood prevention and called on local governments and relevant agencies to strictly implement disaster prevention measures. He also urged authorities to identify and address potential risks and hazards and take effective measures to prevent major disasters and protect people’s lives and property, according to China Radio International (CRI).
Chinese Premier Li Qiang also directed officials to quickly assess the number of people affected and coordinate with Nepal through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to exchange information and facilitate joint rescue efforts.
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs should strengthen communication and coordination with relevant countries, promptly report the situation, and jointly and appropriately handle the rescue work,” Li said in his directive, according to CRI.
Meanwhile, Vice Premier Zhang Guoqing has traveled to the disaster site to oversee rescue and relief operations.
Local authorities in Tibet have mobilized emergency response teams to search for survivors, provide medical assistance and carry out recovery efforts in the affected areas.
