In China, at the Gyirong port, 7 killed, 554 missing in landslide
According to the regional emergency management authority, by 1:00 a.m. Saturday, in China's Gyirong port on the Chinese side, seven people had died, 554 were reported missing, and two local residents had been rescued after a landslide struck the Gyirong port on the China-Nepal border in the Tibet Autonomous Region in southwestern China.
The mountains do not forgive mistakes, and when disaster strikes a populated area, the consequences can be catastrophic. The Gyirong port — a key border crossing in southwestern China — became the scene of tragedy when a powerful landslide from the Nepalese side swept across Chinese territory. Seven dead, hundreds missing — this is the price paid by people living and working in these harsh conditions. Rescuers continue to clear debris, hoping to find survivors.
A total of 2,141 rescuers and 86 specialists from natural resources and other relevant fields have been deployed to the affected area. Using specialised equipment, they have stepped up inspections of geological hazards on surrounding slopes, roads and other critical zones. A five‑person observation post has been set up to continuously monitor the barrier lake and prevent potential secondary disasters. In addition, 1.02 kilometres of roads have been cleared and opened to traffic.
The landslide, which occurred on the Nepalese side, struck the Gyirong port in Gyirong County, Tibet Autonomous Region, on Wednesday morning.
The Gyirong (Kyirong) port is a key border crossing in southwestern China, connecting the Tibet Autonomous Region with Nepal. This mountainous area, located at an altitude of more than 2,000 metres above sea level, is prone to landslides and rockfalls, especially during the rainy season. The tragedy was triggered by a collapse on the Nepalese side that blocked the river, forming a barrier lake that continues to pose a threat to downstream areas. Chinese rescue services are coordinating with Nepalese authorities, but access to the worst‑hit areas remains limited due to damaged roads and unstable weather.
As CCTV+ reports, the death toll in China may rise as many areas remain inaccessible and search operations continue. Rescuers are doing everything possible to find survivors and prevent further destruction. The international community has expressed condolences and offered assistance. This tragedy once again underscores the need to strengthen early warning systems and international cooperation in mountainous regions.
