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A massive flash flood triggered by an ice-rock avalanche devastated parts of Nepal near the China border (Img: Social Media)
New Delhi: A devastating flash flood in Nepal that killed at least 172 people has triggered questions over the possible role of a glacier-related disaster near the China border. China has rejected allegations that a geological disaster on its side caused major losses in Nepal.
The Chinese Embassy in Nepal said reports blaming China for the disaster were “fake”. Beijing stated that an earthquake-like glacier collapse occurred on the Nepal side of the border, triggering massive mudslides that affected both Nepal and China.
The statement added that accusations would not help and stressed the need for cooperation between both countries during disasters.
The flash flood originated near the Rasuwagadhi-Gyirong border region after an ice and rock avalanche triggered a massive flow of water, debris and boulders into rivers.
Experts and officials in Nepal have raised concerns over whether an early warning system could have reduced the scale of the tragedy. They questioned if timely information from the affected region could have helped residents downstream evacuate.
Nepal’s disaster authorities and climate experts believe the disaster was caused by an avalanche in the glacier region, possibly linked to a glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF).
The sudden surge entered the Lhende Khola river before flowing into the Bhote Koshi river, carrying huge amounts of debris and destroying settlements along the way.
The disaster has left thousands missing, including nearly 300 Indians and 37 NRIs. Several security personnel and foreign nationals are also among those unaccounted for.
Officials said rescue operations are continuing in affected areas, while authorities are assessing the full extent of the damage.
