China-Nepal Border Mudslide: Rescue Efforts Intensify

Following a mudslide that struck Gyirong Port on the China-Nepal border, China has initiated communication and information-sharing protocols with the 23 home countries of the 261 foreign nationals who remain missing.

Through the established China-Nepal disaster information exchange mechanism, crucial meteorological, hydrological, and glacial data is being transmitted to Nepal daily. Relevant information is promptly relayed to the respective embassies in China via diplomatic channels.

A 24-hour dedicated hotline has been set up for families, receiving 509 calls as of Sunday, with each inquiry being followed up and responses provided to next of kin. At Nepal's request, China has dispatched tunnel rescue and DNA identification experts, along with emergency relief supplies.

The Xizang autonomous regional government has also supplied 320 metric tons of Bailey bridge components and other aid to Nepal. Information on the missing individuals has been verified rigorously, with basic details released initially and additional verified information published on August 30.

While country-specific numbers of missing persons are public, personal details are withheld due to privacy concerns and communicated directly to embassies. For safety and rescue efficiency, access to core affected areas is restricted to professionals. Journalists accompanied rescue teams to report on the difficult terrain, with their coverage widely disseminated.

Authorities express sympathy for the families and are providing regular updates, maintaining the 24-hour hotline, and diligently verifying information. Current efforts prioritize rescue and recovery. Post-search operations will focus on confirming the status of deceased foreign nationals, assisting their families, and providing support for those still missing within China's legal framework, in coordination with diplomatic missions.