**Catastrophic Floods on Nepal‑China Border Prompt Joint Rescue Operations**
A flash flood that struck the northern border of Nepal and Tibet on Wednesday morning has killed more than 160 people and left thousands missing. Rescue efforts have intensified in both countries, with military and civilian agencies coordinating to locate survivors and provide relief.
**Rescue Operations in Nepal**
The Nepalese Army deployed helicopters to search for people trapped in mud and debris. According to a spokesperson, Brigadier General Raja Ram Basnet, about 100 people have been rescued so far, including those trapped at the Trishuli hydropower project. The army also airlifted at least eight foreign nationals to Kathmandu.
The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority reported that 826 people are missing, with the Nuwakot and Rasuwa districts the most affected. Among the missing are 44 Nepalese Army personnel, 28 police officers, and 13 members of the Armed Police Force.
Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal said that roughly 500 foreign nationals, many pilgrims heading to Mansarovar in Tibet, have gone out of contact. He stated that the government is in contact with foreign embassies and is committed to the safety of both Nepali citizens and foreign nationals.
Prime Minister Balendra Shah and Infrastructure Development Minister Sunil Lamsal visited Bidur in Nuwakot to meet local officials and discuss relief, rehabilitation, and infrastructure repair.
**Chinese Response**
China dispatched 111 emergency rescuers to Gyirong Port in Xizang (Tibet), equipped with detection, life‑saving, demolition, communication, and support gear. The team was flown from Chengdu to Dingri Airport in Shigatse early Thursday morning. The People’s Liberation Army also sent a group to command military rescue forces, including aviation, medical, transportation, and engineering units.
The People’s Daily reported that a barrier lake has formed about 2.5 km from Gyirong Port, creating significant challenges for ongoing rescue efforts. In Tibet, 558 people are missing.
**International Assistance**
India flew 10 tons of relief supplies to Nepal on Wednesday evening, including temporary shelters, blankets, hygiene kits, solar lamps, and medicines. A second flight carrying medicines and food packets departed Thursday morning.
Both India and China have offered assistance but are awaiting a formal request from Kathmandu, as current protocols require. The United States and the World Bank have also offered support. The World Bank has pledged up to NPR 25 billion (approximately US$165 million) in emergency assistance for rescue and reconstruction.
**Current Status**
Rescue teams continue to search for survivors amid mud, debris, and damaged roads. The situation remains fluid, and authorities are coordinating with international partners to provide aid and support to affected communities.
Article and image source: shanghaisun.com
