Landslide on Nepal-Tibet border leaves dead and missing
A disaster affecting roads, communications, and tourists
A landslide on the Nepal-Tibet border, which occurred at around 10:30 a.m. local time, triggered floods that left dead, missing, and village destruction. The mud avalanche hit the Gyirong port in China and the Rasuwa region in Nepal, cutting off roads, communications, and power supplies.
Impact on Gyirong port
The Gyirong port, located about 1,850 meters above sea level, is the main land border crossing between China and Nepal. Surveillance cameras recorded the arrival of mud and water that destroyed buildings, vehicles, and structures in the valley, leaving a large number of injured and missing.
Destruction in Rasuwa
The flood hit the mountainous district of Rasuwa, which has about 50,000 inhabitants. Houses were destroyed, cars floated, and a metal bridge was swept away by the current of the Bhote Koshi River. Witnesses reported entire villages swallowed by water.
Victims and missing
To date, at least nine people have died on the Nepali side, but the number may rise in the coming hours. The Nepal Tourism Board reported that 384 travelers, including 291 foreigners, have been listed as missing. Among the missing tourists are citizens from the United Kingdom, United States, Malaysia, South Africa, and India.
Rescue operations
Nepali police and military personnel have joined rescue efforts, while rescue helicopters have been unable to land in the affected areas. So far, 12 people have been rescued. Operations continue on both sides of the border.
Possible causes
The cause of the flood is not yet clear. A similar flood in the same river last year was attributed to the breaching of a glacial lake. BBC News points out that the flood may have been triggered by an earthquake that caused an avalanche, with melted snow falling into the Bhote Koshi River.
Disruptions in the region
Roads, communications, and power supplies in the Shigatse region have been cut off. The main road to Kathmandu is closed, putting the region on high alert.
With information from G1, Terra.
Source: G1, Terra