Kathmandu [Nepal], August 27 – China’s Ministry of Water Resources has reported the formation of a large natural barrier lake near the confluence of Nepal’s Chhuchen Khola and Purepu Tsangpo River raising concerns over a possible dam breach and downstream flooding.
As of Thursday morning around 2 million cubic metres of water had accumulated in the lake with water already beginning to overflow China Central Television (CCTV) reported, according to the Global Times. Officials estimate another 3 million cubic metres could enter the lake over the next three days increasing the risk of the natural barrier collapsing.
The ministry said it is closely monitoring the lake and conducting flood-impact simulations and analysis while preparing for possible emergency rescue operations.
The Purepu and Chhuchen rivers originate in Tibet and enter Nepal before joining the Bhote Koshi and eventually the Trishuli river system near Rasuwagadhi.
Meanwhile, a landslide originating from the Nepal side of the China-Nepal border has caused major damage at Gyirong Port in southwest China’s Xizang Autonomous Region. Rescue teams including emergency responders, Chinese military personnel, engineers, telecommunications workers and relief agencies have been deployed.
As of Thursday morning three people had been confirmed dead two rescued and 558 remained missing including 260 foreign nationals.
