Chinese President Xi Jinping has ordered authorities to step up search and rescue efforts after a mudslide triggered by heavy flooding in Nepal hit Gyirong border port in southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, leaving three people dead and 265 missing.
Xi called for an all-out search for those still missing, the evacuation of people in danger and prompt medical treatment for the injured to reduce casualties.
The mudslide struck the border port in Gyirong County on Wednesday morning, causing heavy casualties, according to authorities.
As of 8 p.m., three people had died and 265 remained missing, the on-site emergency headquarters said. Authorities were still verifying the casualty figures.
Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, called for stronger monitoring and early warning systems, scientific rescue operations and measures to prevent further disasters.
China is currently in a critical period for flood control, Xi said, urging local authorities and relevant departments to prepare for worst-case scenarios and take stronger measures against floods, typhoons and other risks.
He also called for potential hazards to be identified and addressed quickly to prevent major disasters and protect people's lives and property.
Chinese Premier Li Qiang separately ordered authorities to immediately verify the number of missing and affected people and launch full-scale rescue and relief operations.
Li, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, instructed the Foreign Ministry to maintain close communication and coordination with relevant countries, share information promptly and work together on rescue and relief efforts.
Vice Premier Zhang Guoqing, also a member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, led officials from relevant departments to the disaster site to oversee rescue and emergency response operations.
Authorities in Xizang have mobilized rescue teams and other resources to search for the missing and respond to the disaster.
Rescue and relief operations are continuing.