China Searches for Missing After Mudslide at Border Crossing

On August 26, a glacier collapse on the Nepal side of the border triggered a tsunami-like mudslide that devastated the Gyirong border crossing between China and Nepal. As of Sunday, about 20 Chinese rescue workers were engaged in recovery efforts, utilizing excavators, shovels, and ground-penetrating radar detectors.

The mudslide has resulted in over 1,300 fatalities across both countries, with more than 5,000 individuals still missing. On the Chinese side, 31 deaths have been confirmed, and 531 people remain unaccounted for, including 261 foreign nationals from 23 countries.

The search area has been divided into seven zones, with four zones already searched. Complications in the recovery efforts arise from the region's high altitude, unstable ground, and poor weather conditions.

The Gyirong border crossing, crucial for trade and travel, had been previously closed due to a glacial flood and serves as a significant route for goods and pilgrims traveling to Mount Kailash.