Chinese tunnel experts arrive in mudslide-hit Nepal

Chinese tunnel experts have arrived in Nepal's mudslide-hit region to assist rescue efforts at a damaged hydropower tunnel following a request from the Nepali government, the Ministry of Emergency Management announced on Saturday.

Departing by helicopter from Gyirong county in Xizang autonomous region, which lies just across the Nepali border, the first group of five Chinese tunnel specialists arrived at the disaster site in Nepal late Saturday afternoon and immediately began rescue operations at the tunnel. Gyirong county also suffered heavy losses as a result of the mudslide.

To reinforce the team and meet operational needs, Chinese authorities are rushing an additional four experienced tunnel experts to Nepal, a ministry statement said.