Real-time Exchange of Info between Nepal and China

There has been a regular real-time exchange of information between Nepal and the People’s Republic of China concerning hydrological and meteorological data, as well as information related to flood risks, avalanches, glacial lakes, water-induced disasters, among others.

In addition, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) and Nepali diplomatic missions in China are in constant coordination to collect, assess and share the updated information relating to situation of Nepali nationals in China. The Chinese side has also facilitated the return of Nepali nationals from Tibet through Hilsa and other border points, according to the Press Briefing note shared by MoFA Spokesperson, Lok Bahadur Poudel Chettri today.

In this hour of difficulty, the Government continues its close communication and coordination with our immediate neighbours and international community. As many foreign nationals are still reported missing, a dedicated Emergency Control Room at the Ministry is coordinating with relevant agencies as well as with the families of missing people.

“Our diplomatic missions are also constantly sharing and updating verified information, and facilitating communication with families and extend any necessary assistance, identification and repatriation procedures,” Spokesperson Chettri said.

Nepal has already received generous rescue support from India, China, Japan, the United States, United Arab Emirates, the Republic of Korea, and other countries and partners. Items in this regard include bridge units, freezers, generator sets, solar lamps, DNA testing kits, bridge units, emergency relief equipment as well as tents, blankets, sleeping bags, food packets, medicines etc.

In addition, request has been made for essential non-food items and services like freezers, DNA testing Kits and LiDAR from the USA, relief specific items like Disaster Victim Identification (DVI, Singapore) service, belly bridges (some already received) and high-capacity drones (from China and Singapore). Such specific items are also expected from Japan and the Republic of Korea very soon.

Similarly, Nepal has received airtight bags for the management of the dead bodies, with more being delivered. A team of 18 forensics experts from India specializing in DNA analysis is here since 29 August. Coordination to mobilise Disaster Victim Identification Team from Singapore is underway.

Meanwhile, the post-disaster rescue situation is being effectively handled by unified teams of the country’s security and other agencies. Government agencies are working with specialized technical teams for tunnel rescue from India, China in coordination with Nepali authorities in Mailung (Chilime) and Syafrubesi, and in Upper Trisuli 3A respectively. A team from Republic of Korea is also mobilized.

Spokesperson Chettri said effective coordination is undergoing at different levels both within the country and with our neighbours and international community. The Prime Minister himself is deeply engaged in monitoring and supervising this operation.

The government has also reiterated the fact that Nepal indeed needs assistance and support for rescue and relief operations, in areas like tunnel rescue, freezers, LiDAR, DNA and forensic expertise. Later during the rehabilitation and reconstruction phase, Nepal will require a significant level of support, which will be determined by the PDNA.

“We reiterate our sincere gratitude to our neighbours, friendly countries and partners for standing with Nepal at this difficult hour, and for extending their support and assistance, as well as for their heartfelt condolences and solidarity.” (RSS)