Critical Red Alert
China-Nepal Border / Rasuwa Sector
Authorities in Rasuwa have issued an urgent safety warning following official confirmation that the large natural barrier lake formed near the confluence of the Chochen River and Purepu Tsangpo River in Tibet, China, has burst. Immediate evacuation warnings are in effect for low-lying river settlements.
⚠️ Official Confirmation from District Administration
Rasuwa Chief District Officer Narendra Pariyar confirmed that the Nepali Army informed district authorities about the sudden breach.
“As soon as I received the information, I alerted the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA) and relevant agencies, and coordination is underway accordingly.” — CDO Narendra Pariyar
Assistant Chief District Officer Dhruba Prasad Adhikari added that Chinese officials communicated the lake burst via emergency messaging. While exact physical impacts on the Nepal side are still being assessed, cross-border flows are under intensive observation.
🌊 Background: Formation & Discharge of the Barrier Lake
According to reports from China’s Ministry of Water Resources cited by Global Times:
- Water Accumulation: By Thursday morning, the barrier lake formed near the Chochen and Purepu Tsangpo river junction had accumulated approximately 2 million cubic meters of water before overflow and subsequent breaching began.
- River Hydrography: The Chochen and Purepu rivers originate in the Tibetan Himalayas and merge across the border to form what is known in Nepal as the Bhotekoshi River, which serves as the primary upper branch of the Trishuli River.
- Rescue Suspension: Due to the drastically heightened risk of recurring flash floods, Chinese authorities suspended rescue operations in Tibet earlier today.
🚨 Mandatory Public Safety Guidelines
- Stay Away from Riverbanks: All residents, travelers, and field rescue personnel along the Bhotekoshi and Trishuli river corridors must immediately relocate to higher ground.
- Avoid High-Risk Areas: Refrain from crossing suspension bridges or visiting low-lying flood zones across Rasuwa, Nuwakot, and Dhading.
- Monitor Updates: Keep tuned to official advisories from the District Administration Office and emergency services