China and Nepal face mass casualties from landslides and floods

Massive landslides and flash floods in the Himalayan border region between China and Nepal have resulted in significant casualties and missing persons. In China's Tibet Autonomous Region, authorities reported 3 deaths and 265 people missing following a landslide near the Jiru County border checkpoint. Chinese President Xi Jinping has ordered all-out efforts to minimize loss of life and prevent secondary disasters.

In Nepal, flooding at the Upper Trishuli-1 (UT-1) hydroelectric power plant construction site has also caused widespread missing persons. Among those missing are eight South Korean nationals, including employees from Doosan Enerbility and Korea South-East Power. The UT-1 project is a major private hydroelectric venture aimed at providing 20% of Nepal's total power supply upon completion.

Rescue operations are underway, utilizing drones, laser scanners, and life detectors. However, difficult terrain and severed communication and power lines in the mountainous regions are complicating efforts. China has implemented a seven-day road closure toward the Nepal border to ensure safety during the emergency response.