Rescuers race to reopen highway to mudslide-hit border port in Xizang

Rescuers are working tirelessly to reopen a crucial highway that leads to Gyirong Port, located in Tibet's western Xizang region, following a devastating mudslide caused by an ice-rock avalanche in Nepal. The G216 highway, a national route to the port, has been partially restored, reaching within 1.1 kilometres of the port as of Monday noon.

However, rescuers are racing against time to complete the repairs before more heavy rainfall is expected. A deadly mudslide struck Gyirong Port on August 26, claiming 16 lives and leaving 546 people missing at the time. The disaster destroyed buildings, power supplies, and a section of the G216, making it extremely difficult for rescue teams to reach the affected areas.

China Anneng Group deployed 158 emergency response personnel and 28 sets of equipment, including excavators and loaders, to repair the damaged highway using relay operations, with monitoring teams employing laser-based AI devices to track changes and ensure safety. Over 2,141 personnel, including military and police forces, have joined the search and rescue efforts.

Despite challenges like high-altitude terrain, steep valleys, and volatile weather, rescuers continue to push forward, clearing mud, conducting rescues, identifying hazards, disinfecting the area, and providing medical assistance. Communications have been restored at the core rescue site, and the barrier lake above the port has mostly drained, allowing river flow.

Authorities are closely monitoring the mountain slopes and utilizing drone footage and panoramic images to assess potential risks.