Malaysians Missing in Nepal
The Malaysian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has reported that 55 of its citizens are missing in Nepal. Communication and electricity disruptions are hindering efforts to locate them. The ministry is collaborating with local authorities on search and rescue operations. No casualties among Malaysians have been confirmed so far.
Massive Mudslide on Tibet-Nepal Border
Chinese officials report a tragic mudslide has struck the Gyirong area in Tibet, near the border with Nepal. At least three people have died, and 558 remain missing, including 260 foreign nationals. As rescue operations continue, two villagers have been found alive, and three bodies have been recovered. The missing count has surpassed earlier estimates.
President Xi Jinping has ordered extensive search efforts and emphasized the need for better monitoring and early warning systems to prevent future incidents. Roads, communication, and power pathways to Gyirong have been severely affected, complicating rescue missions.
Australia and Other Nations Concerned
Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong has confirmed that 34 Australian citizens are unaccounted for, though information remains scarce due to the disaster’s magnitude. These Australians were part of various pilgrimage and travel groups. Australia is sending crisis response teams to assist.
Furthermore, 47 American tourists are listed as missing, according to Nepal’s tourism board. However, the U.S. State Department has not yet verified these figures. It is closely monitoring the situation and has allocated $500,000 for aid through Catholic Relief Services.
In total, over 400 foreign nationals are unaccounted for in Nepal, a region popular among pilgrims and trekkers. Many countries, including India, Canada, Britain, and Japan, have reported missing citizens.
Devastation Captured on Video
Surveillance footage from the Rasuwagadhi border crossing grimly documents the flood’s impact. A wall of water demolishes buildings and bridges, sweeping away vehicles in its path. In moments, lush valleys become sites of devastation.
Video evidence captured by various sources shows the extent of destruction in the Rasuwa region. Roads and structures crumble under the force of the floodwaters. Eyewitnesses on a bus in Bidur reported seeing the oncoming surge, capturing a scene of chaos and attempted escapes.
