Xizang steps up relief as toll rises to 16 dead, 546 missing

The devastating mudslide that hit Gyirong Port in the Xizang autonomous region on Wednesday has left 16 dead and 546 others — including 261 foreign nationals — still missing, the regional government said on Sunday, as local authorities race to meet the basic needs and psychological well-being of evacuees.

Karma Tsetan, chairman of the regional government, gave the updated figures at a news conference held at the government compound in Gyirong county, Shigatse, where he called for a minute of silence for the victims.

He said the consulates of the relevant countries have been notified.

Regional authorities quickly activated the highest-level natural-disaster emergency response and set up a frontline command post to coordinate search operations, he added.

The ministries of finance and emergency management have allocated 120 million yuan ($17.8 million) for relief, while the National Development and Reform Commission separately earmarked 100 million yuan, according to the chairman.

A total of 2,141 rescuers from multiple emergency units, along with 269 vehicles and more than 3,900 sets of equipment, have been deployed to the affected zone.

Inspections of 236 buildings across five administrative villages in threatened areas have found no immediate structural risks, he said.

Authorities are using satellite remote-sensing, slope radar and hydrologic sensors to continuously monitor two barrier lakes formed by the landslide, whose dams remain relatively stable. Geologists are also scouring mountain slopes to prevent secondary slides.

He pledged to sustain rescue manpower, monitor geological risks, shelter displaced residents and push ahead with post-disaster relief and recovery efforts.

Norbu Tsering, acting mayor of Shigatse, said local authorities have rolled out a full suite of measures to safeguard the basic livelihoods and mental well-being of displaced residents.

A total of 499 residents from five affected villages have been relocated to five temporary shelters converted from hotels and homestays, he said.

The city has dispatched 116 metric tons of flour and highland barley, alongside 32,000 units of instant noodles and bottled water. An additional 57,000 essential relief items, including tents, folding beds and clothing have also been delivered to support the displaced population, Norbu Tsering said.

Authorities have set up five dedicated teams composed of grassroots officials and medical personnel to deliver round-the-clock services at the shelters.

"We have launched a one-on-one support mechanism with 24-hour on-call services to respond swiftly to displaced residents' urgent needs," he added.

Specialized care is prioritized for vulnerable groups, with dedicated caregivers assigned to residents aged over 60. Officials have also strengthened targeted monitoring and care for pregnant women and infants to guarantee tailored support.

Each shelter is staffed with psychological counselors to conduct regular mental health checks and provide professional counseling services.

In addition, authorities have arranged daily site patrols and regular maintenance for evacuees' cattle, sheep and other livestock to relieve residents of property concerns during their displacement.

Two 24-hour hotlines have been opened for families of missing Chinese nationals to make inquiries and seek assistance: 0892-8980106 and 0892-8980107, Norbu Tsering said.