Massive landslide destroys China-Nepal border crossing

A massive landslide at the China-Nepal border devastated a crucial border checkpoint, leaving numerous casualties and numerous people missing, according to Chinese state media. The landslide occurred in Nepal on Wednesday morning and also impacted Tibet's Gyirong county, which falls under Shigatse city's jurisdiction. Footage showed the landslide engulfing the checkpoint within seconds, with people fleeing as mud and debris obscured the camera.

The exact number of fatalities and injured individuals has not been confirmed by the SCMP. In Nepal, 384 tourists and travelers are reported missing, including 93 Nepalese and 291 foreigners from countries such as India, Australia, the US, the UK, and the Netherlands. The missing individuals' nationalities are still being confirmed.

Gyirong Port, the main foreign trade port for Tibet, handles the majority of China's trade with Nepal. China has ordered local authorities to "spare no effort" in rescuing missing persons, evacuating residents, treating the injured, and minimizing casualties. The road leading to the Gyirong checkpoint has been closed for seven days.

The People’s Armed Police, a paramilitary law enforcement agency, has arrived at the scene to conduct emergency rescue and disaster relief operations. The Chinese embassy in Nepal has activated its emergency response mechanism and is monitoring Chinese nationals and enterprises in the disaster zone. China and Nepal, China's second-largest trading partner, have a bilateral trade relationship worth around 16.9 per cent of Nepal's total trade. The landlocked nation views China as a vital strategic counterweight to India.