Nepal-China Border Rescues Resume After Lake Threat Subside

Rescue efforts along the China-Nepal border have resumed after the immediate threat from an overflowing glacial lake, formed by a recent collapse, was assessed as manageable. This development allowed operations, suspended due to safety concerns, to continue.

The lake, situated on the border and upstream from the Gyirong crossing, had posed a significant flood risk. Initially, Chinese authorities withdrew rescue personnel and vehicles on Friday morning due to the danger of the lake bursting and triggering further disasters like avalanches. However, by midday, the situation was deemed under control, permitting an increase in rescue activities.

The reservoir capacity of the lake has increased to an estimated 2.5 million cubic meters. Chinese engineering teams deployed for monitoring noted difficulties in accessing the site due to treacherous terrain created by the glacier’s collapse. Rainfall in the Gyirong border port area has further destabilized the region, with more precipitation expected.

Earlier warnings indicated that the lake could receive an additional 3 million cubic meters of water, with a peak risk of a breach anticipated around September 1. Aerial footage showed the vast accumulation of water in a basin, submerging vegetation and pressing against a debris dam.

The devastating flash flood on Wednesday swept away people and vehicles, impacting the crucial border crossing. On the Tibetan side, the official death toll has risen to five, with 558 people still missing. Across both countries, the total number of missing individuals is approaching 1,000, with approximately 540 of them being foreign nationals from 31 different countries.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)