New landslide forms new barrier lake in Gyirong

A new landslide occurred downstream of a barrier lake in Gyirong county, Shigatse, Southwest China's Xizang autonomous region, on Saturday evening, forming a new barrier dam and lake, according to the Ministry of Emergency Management.

The landslide was detected by reconnaissance drones deployed by members of an emergency response team coordinated by the ministry. The newly formed barrier dam is about 2.8 kilometers downstream of an existing barrier lake.

The ministry has promptly organized experts to assess the situation and is maintaining continuous drone monitoring of the lake and surrounding areas. It is also conducting ongoing consultations and risk assessments to support local authorities in emergency response and disaster relief efforts.

Rescue personnel working near the Gyirong border port have been moved to safe locations as a precaution, the ministry said.

The latest development came after a debris flow on the Nepal side of the border on the morning of Aug 26 caused heavy casualties and left people missing at Gyirong border port in Gyirong county.

According to local authorities, 2,141 personnel from the People's Liberation Army, the People's Armed Police Force, national comprehensive fire and rescue teams, border defense forces, and public security authorities have been mobilized for search and rescue operations.

The rescue effort has also deployed 269 vehicles and 3,922 pieces of rescue equipment.

Search and rescue operations are advancing toward the disaster-stricken core area by land, water and air, while authorities continue to closely monitor geological and hydrological conditions and adjust emergency response measures accordingly.