Nothing but ruins: Chinese rescue team find Nepal border station was swept off face off the Earth by flood as incredible satellite images show scale of devastation with 2,426 still missing
Satellite images and rescue reports indicate that severe flooding in Nepal has destroyed the Rasuwagadhi border crossing with Tibet, bridges and parts of nearby settlements along the Trishuli River. The disaster matters because it has cut through a remote but important route used by pilgrims and trekkers, while leaving thousands unaccounted for and complicating access for rescuers.
Authorities reported at least 626 deaths and 2,426 people missing, including more than 500 foreign tourists; 33 Britons were known to be among them. A 21-person Chinese rescue team and search dog reached Rasuwagadhi on Friday, describing the area as “nothing but ruins” after travelling through forest and cliffs where roads had been destroyed. Images also showed widespread damage in Syapru Besi and the loss of a nearby bridge, with poor weather and the risk of further flooding hampering rescue efforts.
- Nepal floods destroyed a key Tibet border crossing and surrounding infrastructure.
- At least 626 people have died and 2,426 remain missing.
- Remote terrain and poor weather are impeding rescue operations.
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Nepal is a mountainous country between India and China, where rivers can rise rapidly during heavy rain and cause floods and landslides. Rasuwagadhi is a border crossing in the north of the country, linked to Tibet, and lies beside the Trishuli River in an area with limited road access.
The surrounding region is used by local communities, traders, trekkers and pilgrims travelling towards religious sites, including routes associated with Mount Kailash in Tibet. Damage to roads, bridges and border facilities can isolate settlements, disrupt cross-border travel and make it harder for emergency teams to reach people in remote valleys.