China Rejects Nepal’s Flash Flood Warning Allegations

China has rejected allegations from Nepal that it deliberately failed to issue an early warning before devastating flash floods along the Nepal-Tibet border. The Chinese Embassy in Kathmandu said that assigning blame would serve no purpose in the current situation and stressed that cooperation should take priority. It urged both sides to focus on rescuing those affected, supporting victims and speeding up relief operations. China also dismissed claims that a dam on its side had collapsed and caused the destruction in Nepal, describing the reports as false information.

China said the disaster was triggered by a combination of an earthquake or earthquake-like ice collapse, followed by a massive flow of snow, rocks, mud and water into downstream areas. The disaster has caused extensive damage, with reports indicating more than 175 deaths and over 1,300 people still unaccounted for. Meanwhile, Nepal has raised questions over the absence of an early warning, while USGS and ISRO assessments have offered differing views on the possible trigger. China has meanwhile stepped up relief operations in Tibet, deploying rescue teams and medical personnel and providing emergency supplies and funds.