Kathmandu— Rescuers are conducting a sweeping search of the mudslide-stricken Gyirong Port in southwest China’s Xizang Autonomous Region after a fast-moving chain mudslide, triggered by a high-altitude glacier collapse on the Nepalese side, left seven people dead and 554 others missing as of Saturday morning. China immediately dispatched professional rescuers, firefighters, and military forces to the area, with over 2,141 rescue workers and 86 specialists now on site. The search is complicated by challenging terrain, damaged infrastructure, and the threat of further disasters, including potential breaches of a barrier lake formed by the mudslide.

Search Operations Underway

Members of the Sichuan provincial fire and rescue corps of the China Search and Rescue team have been systematically searching key areas within the disaster zone since Saturday morning. Teams are calling out for survivors while navigating through mud, boulders, and wreckage, including what appears to be remains of vehicles. Drones are being utilized to deliver supplies to rescuers stationed in the core disaster area, launched from a supply zone located three kilometers away.

Challenging Conditions Hamper Rescue Efforts

Rescuers face significant challenges due to the harsh terrain and ongoing risks of secondary disasters such as falling rocks and potential breaches of the barrier lake formed by the mudslide. Damaged roads and disrupted communications are also hindering access and coordination. Huo Jianxin, a member of the advance group from the China Search and Rescue team, expressed his team’s determination, stating, “After we saw the situation here upon arrival, my team and I had just one hope: as long as there is even the slightest chance of finding survivors, we will never give up.”

Infrastructure Damage and Repair

The mudslide has severely damaged a section of the G216 national highway leading to Gyirong Port, significantly impeding emergency response efforts. China Anneng, a state-owned engineering and rescue enterprise, has deployed 60 personnel and 14 pieces of equipment, including excavators and loaders, in an attempt to reopen the crucial roadway. Excavators are also working to repair other key roads to facilitate access into the port.

Weather Concerns Add to Risks

The meteorological department is forecasting light to moderate rain or thunderstorms across Gyirong County through Sunday, raising concerns about potential flash floods, mudslides, and landslides in vulnerable areas. Local authorities have issued warnings regarding the unstable geological setting of the barrier lake upstream from the port, emphasizing the risk of a breach that could endanger rescue operations downstream.

Rescue teams continue to search for survivors while working to repair critical infrastructure and mitigate further risks posed by adverse weather conditions and potential secondary disasters.

(With inputs from Xinhua)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.