Xi orders all-out rescue after mudslide hits China-Nepal border following Rasuwa flood

Gyirong, China, August 26, 2026 — Chinese President Xi Jinping has ordered an all-out search and rescue operation after a mudslide struck the Gyirong border port in southwest China’s Xizang Autonomous Region on Wednesday morning, following a devastating flash flood in Nepal’s Rasuwa district.

The disaster has caused deaths, missing persons and extensive damage to property and infrastructure on both sides of the China-Nepal border.

Xi directed authorities to make every effort to locate missing people, treat those injured and reduce casualties and property losses. He also called for stronger monitoring, early-warning systems and emergency response measures to prevent secondary disasters.

The Chinese government has mobilised emergency response agencies for search, rescue and relief operations. Chinese Vice Premier Zhang Guoqing travelled to Kerung, near the Nepal-China border, to inspect the affected area and oversee the response. He was accompanied by relevant government officials.

The mudslide struck the area around Gyirong Port, known as Rasuwagadhi on the Nepali side. The disaster damaged a road leading to the port, while drone footage showed several buildings at the border facility buried beneath debris.

China has deployed 145 personnel from the Xigaze detachment of the People’s Armed Police to support emergency operations in the affected border area.

The response comes as rescue efforts continue in Nepal following the sudden flash flood in the Bhote Koshi River in Rasuwa early Wednesday.

At least eight people have been confirmed dead in Rasuwa, while several others remain missing. Authorities have warned that the casualty figure could rise as rescue teams struggle to reach some of the hardest-hit locations.

The flood swept through Timure and nearby areas, destroying houses, roads and bridges and damaging hydropower projects and other infrastructure. Security personnel have been mobilised for search and rescue, with helicopters also deployed. However, high water levels and difficult terrain have complicated aerial rescue efforts in some locations.