Kathmandu— Chinese President Xi Jinping has ordered immediate and comprehensive search and rescue operations after a mudslide struck near the Gyirong border port in southwest China’s Xizang Autonomous Region on Wednesday morning, resulting in casualties and missing persons. The incident originated in Nepal and impacted the Chinese side of the border crossing, prompting top-level directives from Xi, who also heads the Communist Party of China (CPC) and the Central Military Commission, to prioritize evacuation, medical care, and disaster prevention. Premier Li Qiang has also issued instructions emphasizing verification of affected individuals and collaborative international efforts.

Presidential Directives

Xi Jinping instructed officials to prioritize the search for missing persons and provide prompt medical attention to those injured by the mudslide, aiming to minimize further loss of life. He also emphasized the importance of strengthening monitoring systems and early warning mechanisms to prevent secondary disasters. His instructions came after receiving reports of the incident at approximately 10:30 a.m. Wednesday.

Coordination and International Cooperation

Premier Li Qiang directed authorities to immediately verify the number of missing and affected individuals, while also calling for all-out rescue and relief efforts. He specifically instructed the Foreign Ministry to enhance communication and coordination with relevant countries, emphasizing the need to share information promptly and collaborate effectively in handling the rescue operations.

On-Site Response

Vice Premier Zhang Guoqing led a team of officials from various departments to Gyirong County to oversee the ongoing search and disaster response efforts. Authorities in Xizang have mobilized resources and personnel to conduct comprehensive search and rescue operations, with all relevant activities currently underway.

Broader Disaster Preparedness

Recognizing that China is currently facing a critical period of flood control, Xi Jinping urged local authorities and departments to prepare for worst-case scenarios and extreme weather events. He stressed the full implementation of measures designed to prevent floods and typhoons, as well as proactive efforts to identify and address potential risks and hazards.

Rescue operations are currently underway in Xizang, with ongoing monitoring and preventative measures being implemented across China to mitigate further disaster risk.

(With inputs from Xinhua)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.